# evidently

/ˈɛvədəntɫi/ (US) · /ˈɛvɪdəntli/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/evidently
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. clearly or obviously

adverb · CEFR B2

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

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

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

### 2. apparently

adverb · CEFR B2

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

For teachers: 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'.

- Evidently, the party was a success, because there are empty plates everywhere.
- Evidently, the negotiations have stalled, though neither side has issued a formal statement to the press regarding the delay.

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

## Examples

- Evidently, the store is closed today.
- He was evidently upset by the news, as he left the room without saying a single word to anyone.
- The archaeological remains were evidently part of a much larger complex, though centuries of erosion had obscured the original layout of the outer walls.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.