adv
Meaning 1
Seemingly, apparently, on the surface; supposedly, according to representations or implications made by someone (especially when their motives are suspected by others).
Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract
Usage: modal, not-comparable
Examples
- Near-synonyms: reportedly, reputedly, purportedly, putatively, rumoredly, supposedly, allegedly, possibly, probably, likely, plausibly, presumably; see also Thesaurus:ostensibly
- His interest in the railway was ostensibly a hobby, but people began wondering why he was taking photos of specific trains and specific equipment.
- Her interest in his welfare was ostensibly charitable and magnanimous, but people began wondering who was going to inherit his assets when he died.
Meaning relationships
Synonyms: apparently, arguably, at first blush, ostensively, seemingly, reportedly, reputedly, purportedly, putatively, rumoredly, supposedly, allegedly, possibly, probably, likely, plausibly, presumably
Antonyms: none provided