ENGLISH
REFERENCE

evidently

adv.
US //ˈɛvədəntɫi// UK //ˈɛvɪdəntli// ev·i·dent·ly
  1. 1 clearly or obviously (adv.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    used to say that something is easy to see or understand from the facts.

    in a manner that makes a fact or conclusion obvious; used to indicate that something can be clearly inferred from available evidence.

    Example

    He was evidently upset by the news, as he stopped talking and left the room.

    Example

    The witness was evidently shaken by the cross-examination, as her voice began to tremble and she struggled to maintain her composure.

    Usage

    Often functions as a sentence adverb, modifying the entire clause to show the speaker's certainty based on observation.
    • doubtfully
    • obscurely
  2. 2 apparently (adv.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    used to describe something that seems to be true, even if you are not 100% sure.

    used to indicate that something appears to be the case based on reports or outward appearance; occasionally proscribed when used as a synonym for 'seemingly'.

    Example

    Evidently, the party was a success, because there are empty plates everywhere.

    Example

    Evidently, the negotiations have stalled, though neither side has issued a formal statement to the press regarding the delay.

    Teacher's tip

    While often used interchangeably with 'apparently', 'evidently' implies stronger physical evidence, whereas 'apparently' can rely on hearsay.
Origin

From Middle English evidently, evydently; equivalent to evident + -ly.

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