ostensibly
UK: ɒˈstɛnsəbli | US: ɑːˈstɛnsəbli
adv. apparently or seemingly, but not necessarily truly
adv. used to describe something that is stated as true but may conceal a different reality
ostensibly = ostens<show> + ibly<adverb suffix>
- ostens (from Latin ostendere, meaning "to show" or "display")
- ibly (adverbial suffix derived from Latin -ibilis, indicating capability or manner)
Etymology Origin:
The word ostensibly originates from the Latin ostendere ("to show"), which evolved into the Late Latin ostensibilis ("capable of being shown"). Over time, it entered Middle French as ostensible (meaning "apparent") and was later adopted into English in the 18th century. The adverb form ostensibly retains the core idea of something being presented or shown outwardly, often with an implied contrast to hidden truth.
He was ostensibly there to help, but his real motive was unclear.
The document was ostensibly a peace treaty, but it contained secret clauses.
She ostensibly agreed with the plan, though her hesitation suggested otherwise.
The company ostensibly supports sustainability, yet its practices tell a different story.
The meeting was ostensibly about budgets, but it quickly turned into a debate on policy.