Ostensible: meaning, definitions and examples

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ostensible

[əˈstɛnsəb(ə)l ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

appearance

Stated or appearing to be true, but not necessarily so.

Synonyms

apparent, outward, seeming.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
ostensible	This word is used to describe something that appears to be true but might not actually be the true reason or real situation. It often implies a hidden motive. The ostensible reason for his visit was to check on the project, but he seemed more interested in meeting the new manager. Her ostensible friendliness was just a mask for her competitive nature.
apparent	This is used to describe something that is clearly visible or understood but does not necessarily imply any deceit or hidden motives. It became apparent that the meeting was going to be postponed. Her relief was apparent after she received the good news.
seeming	This indicates that something looks a certain way, but there is a possibility that the reality is different. Their seeming generosity was actually a way to gain favor. His seeming confidence hid a deep insecurity.
outward	This word is used to refer to what is externally visible, which may or may not reflect the true nature of something or someone. Despite her outward calm, she was really nervous inside. The outward appearance of the building was quite grand, but the interior was in disrepair.

Examples of usage

The ostensible reason for his absence was illness, but we later found out he was actually attending a concert.
She made an ostensible effort to help, but it was clear she wasn't really interested.
The ostensible leader of the group was actually just a figurehead.
The ostensible goal of the project was to promote teamwork, but the real aim was to increase profits.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

pretense

Used to describe something that is pretended or feigned.

Synonyms

false, pretended, sham.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
ostensible	Used when referring to something that appears to be true but might not be. It is often used to describe an official reason or explanation that hides the real one. The ostensible reason for his visit was to see an old friend, but he really wanted to discuss business
pretended	Used when describing an action or feeling that someone shows but doesn't actually feel. It is often used to refer to deceitful behavior. He pretended to be interested in the conversation, but he was actually very bored
false	Used when something is completely untrue or incorrect. This word can be used in various situations from statements and beliefs to information and identities. She was given false information about the deadline
sham	Used to describe something that is a complete fake or fraud. This word often carries a strong negative connotation and implies intentional deceit. The contest was a sham, designed to promote the company rather than find a real winner

Examples of usage

His ostensible concern for her well-being was just a facade to hide his true intentions.
The ostensible friendship between the two countries was shattered when they declared war.
She maintained an ostensible interest in the conversation, but her mind was elsewhere.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Latin 'ostendere', which means 'to show' or 'to display', reflecting its focus on appearance.
It entered the English language in the early 19th century, suggesting a growing interest in how things can be perceived versus what they truly are.

Psychology

In psychology, people often encounter ostensible truths during cognitive biases, where perceptions can be misleading.
The concept of 'ostensible' is linked to deception and trust, examining how people adopt certain behaviors to appear a certain way.

Philosophy

Philosophers discuss the concept of ostensible truths in relation to the 'appearance versus reality' debate, raising questions about what can be truly known.
The term is often used in discussions about social constructs, where outward behaviors may not align with true beliefs or feelings.

Pop Culture

In movies and literature, characters often present ostensible motives, making the audience question their true intentions.
Reality television often amplifies the concept, where cast members create ostensible drama for entertainment, blurring the line between real and scripted.

Literature

Writers use the term to explore themes of identity and façade, revealing how characters may present themselves differently from their true selves.
In the work of authors like F. Scott Fitzgerald, characters often embody ostensible attributes, reflecting societal expectations while hiding deeper truths.

Translations

Translations of the word "ostensible" in other languages:

🇵🇹 aparente

🇮🇳 प्रकट

🇩🇪 scheinbar

🇮🇩 tampak

🇺🇦 очевидний

🇵🇱 pozorny

🇯🇵 表向きの

🇫🇷 apparent

🇪🇸 aparente

🇹🇷 görünürdeki

🇰🇷 표면상의

🇸🇦 ظاهري

🇨🇿 zjevný

🇸🇰 zjavný

🇨🇳 表面的

🇸🇮 navidezen

🇮🇸 áberandi

🇰🇿 көрініп тұрған

🇬🇪 მოჩვენებითი

🇦🇿 görünən

🇲🇽 aparente

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,657, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

...
18654 rabble
18655 shaggy
18656 firmament
18657 ostensible
18658 clatter
18659 compilers
18660 galloped
...