# ostensibly

/ɑˈstɛnsəbɫi/ (US) · /ɒstˈɛnsəbli/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adverb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/ostensibly
Updated: 2026-05-06

## Definition

appearing to be one way on the surface, even if the real reason or truth is different. You use this when someone says they are doing something for one reason, but you suspect there is a hidden motive.

For teachers: appearing or stated to be true, though not necessarily so; on the surface. Used to indicate a discrepancy between a stated justification and a suspected underlying reality.

## Examples

- He visited the office ostensibly to say hello, but he wanted a job.
- The troops were ostensibly deployed for peacekeeping, though many observers believed their true purpose was to secure the nearby oil fields.
- While the policy was ostensibly designed to protect consumer privacy, critics argued it served primarily to stifle competition by preventing smaller firms from accessing essential market data.

## Usage notes

- Often used to qualify a statement of purpose or intent; typically placed before the verb or adjective it modifies.

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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.