Ostensibly
/ɒˈstɛn.sɪ.bli/ adv
adv ·Moderate ·College level
Definitions
Adverb
- 1 Seemingly, apparently, on the surface; supposedly, according to representations or implications made by someone (especially when their motives are suspected by others). modal, not-comparable
"Near-synonyms: reportedly, reputedly, purportedly, putatively, rumoredly, supposedly, allegedly, possibly, probably, likely, plausibly, presumably; see also Thesaurus:ostensibly"
Adverb
- 1 from appearances alone wordnet
Example
More examples"The website is filled with heavily censored depictions of what are ostensibly violent and pornographic incidents as means of shock value."
Etymology
From ostensible + -ly.