Apparent: meaning, definitions and examples

When something seems true based on what you see or understand, but it's not confirmed.

• It's apparent that she is upset about something.
• The apparent winner of the race is still under investigation.

When something is very easy to see or understand and cannot be missed.

• It was obvious that he was nervous.
• Her disappointment was obvious to everyone.

When something is easy to understand or see, without any confusion.

• The instructions were clear and easy to follow.
• It was clear that he was telling the truth.

When something is obvious and can be easily seen or understood, usually used in formal contexts.

• It was evident that she was lying.
• The benefits of the new policy are evident.

When something can be seen with the eyes, or more generally, something that is noticeable.

• The car was barely visible in the fog.
• Her excitement was visible to everyone in the room.

When something is clearly visible or understood, without any doubt.

• It was apparent that she was upset after the meeting.
• The cause of the accident was apparent from the beginning.

When something appears to be one way on the surface, but might not be true when looked at more closely. Often implies doubt or misinterpretation.

• His seeming generosity was a facade.
• The seeming calm of the village was disrupted by sudden chaos.

When something appears to be true but is likely hiding a different or real reason. This term often carries a sense of skepticism.

• The ostensible reason for his visit was to check on the project, but he actually wanted to see her.
• Her ostensible cheeriness masked deeper issues.

When talking about something that is claimed to be true but has not been proven yet. Often used in legal or formal contexts.

• The alleged thief was taken into custody by the police.
• She is facing charges for the alleged fraud.

Used to describe something that seems to be true based on evidence or observation, but could be false.

• It became apparent that she was unhappy with the decision.
• The cause of the failure was not immediately apparent.

Describes something that looks or seems like something else, often in a misleading or mistaken way.

• The magician created an amazing illusion that left the audience in awe.
• She was under the illusion that everything was fine.

Refers to the act of lying or tricking someone, often with a negative or harmful intent.

• The company's deception led to a major scandal.
• He was skilled in the art of deception, making it hard to trust him.

Indicates a false display of feelings, attitudes, or intentions, typically to deceive someone.

• He made no pretense of caring about the outcome.
• Under the pretense of friendship, he manipulated her for his own gain.