Ostensibly

Ostensibly is an adverb meaning “as it seems” or “apparently,” used to describe something that is presented or appears to be a certain way, though there may be doubt about the underlying reality.

Usage and nuance: The term often signals a contrast between appearance and reality, or between stated purposes and actual motives. It is commonly used to suggest that the surface explanation may be insufficient or potentially misleading. While ostensibly neutral, it can carry a hint of skepticism when the stated reason is questioned or when hidden factors are suspected. For example, one might say, “The project was ostensibly funded by a nonprofit, but critics argued that donor influence shaped its priorities.”

Etymology: The word derives from Latin ostensus, the past participle of ostendere “to show,” meaning something that has been shown or displayed. It entered English via Old French and early modern usage, with the adjective ostensibile giving rise to the adverb ostensibly in the 17th century.

See also: Related terms include ostensible and ostentation, as well as synonymous expressions such as apparently, seemingly, and outwardly. The distinction between ostensibly and truly often centers on whether the stated or visible justification matches the underlying reality.