Apparently: meaning, definitions and examples

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apparently

 

[ əˈparəntli ]

Adverb
Oxford 3000
Context #1 | Adverb

in a way that seems to be true, although it is not certain

Used to say that you have heard that something is true, although you are not completely sure about it. This word is often used to express doubt or uncertainty.

Synonyms

allegedly, ostensibly, reportedly, seemingly.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
apparently

This word is used when something seems true based on the available evidence, but you are not completely certain. It often indicates surprise or that the information is based on an indirect source.

  • Apparently, she didn't receive the email
  • Apparently, it's going to rain tomorrow
seemingly

This word is used when something appears to be true based on what is observed, but it leaves open the possibility that it is not actually true. It often stresses an observation that might be superficial.

  • He is seemingly happy with his new job
  • The solution is seemingly simple but has complex implications
ostensibly

This word means that something is stated or appears to be true, but there may be hidden reasons or a different reality. It often carries a subtle implication of dishonesty or pretense.

  • She left the job ostensibly to spend more time with her family
  • The project was ostensibly for community development, but it seemed to benefit the contractors more
allegedly

This word is used when reporting something that is claimed to be true, but there is no definite proof. It often appears in legal or official contexts and is neutral in tone.

  • He allegedly committed the robbery
  • The company allegedly violated environmental regulations
reportedly

This word is used to indicate that information comes from a specific source or sources, but it doesn't confirm that the information is true. It suggests that the information is from a report or second-hand.

  • The actor is reportedly dating a famous singer
  • The new policy is reportedly going to be implemented next month

Examples of usage

  • I've never met her, but apparently she's really nice.
  • They're apparently going to get married soon.
Context #2 | Adverb

according to what you have heard or read

Used to indicate that something seems to be true based on the information available. It is often used to convey information that is not firsthand.

Synonyms

allegedly, reportedly, supposedly.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
apparently

Use this word when something seems to be true based on what you have seen or heard, even if it isn't confirmed. It often implies a bit of doubt.

  • Apparently, he's moved to a new city.
  • She apparently forgot to attend the meeting.
supposedly

This word is used when expressing something that is believed or assumed to be true, often with a hint of sarcasm or doubt.

  • He is supposedly the best player on the team.
  • The package is supposedly arriving tomorrow.
allegedly

This word is used mainly in legal or formal contexts and indicates that something is claimed without yet having proof. It often has a serious or formal tone.

  • He allegedly committed the crime.
  • The company allegedly misled its customers.
reportedly

Use this when referring to information that you have heard from reports, news, or other sources. It implies that the source of the information is not firsthand.

  • She reportedly earned a big bonus.
  • They are reportedly starting a new project.

Examples of usage

  • Apparently, the meeting has been postponed.
  • She's apparently a famous actress.

Translations

Translations of the word "apparently" in other languages:

🇵🇹 aparentemente

🇮🇳 स्पष्ट रूप से

🇩🇪 anscheinend

🇮🇩 tampaknya

🇺🇦 очевидно

🇵🇱 najwyraźniej

🇯🇵 どうやら

🇫🇷 apparemment

🇪🇸 aparentemente

🇹🇷 görünüşe göre

🇰🇷 분명히

🇸🇦 يبدو

🇨🇿 zjevně

🇸🇰 zjavne

🇨🇳 显然

🇸🇮 očitno

🇮🇸 augljóslega

🇰🇿 байқап тұрғандай

🇬🇪 როგორც ჩანს

🇦🇿 görünür ki

🇲🇽 aparentemente

Etymology

The word 'apparently' originated from the Middle English word 'apparauntli', which in turn came from the Old French word 'aparaent'. It has been used in the English language since the late 14th century. The term has evolved over time to its current usage, indicating something that seems to be true based on available information.

Word Frequency Rank

This word ranks #1,504, placing it within important intermediate vocabulary. Learning it will significantly improve your ability to express yourself in English.