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Definition of ostensible

Appearing to be true or genuine on the surface, but may not necessarily be so in reality.
"Her ostensible calmness was betrayed by the nervous tapping of her foot."

Detailed Meaning of Ostensible

It refers to a quality or characteristic that is outwardly evident or claimed, often serving as a cover or facade for something else. When something is described as "ostensible," it suggests that there is a discrepancy between its apparent nature and the underlying truth. This term is frequently employed to highlight the deceptive or misleading nature of a situation, emphasizing the need for closer examination or skepticism to uncover the true motives or reality behind it.

Example Sentences for Ostensible

1. Her ostensible joy hid the grief she felt inside; her smile didn't reach her eyes.
2. The ostensible calm of the sea belied the storm that was brewing underneath.
3. His ostensible knowledge on the topic was questioned by experts in the field.
4. The document’s ostensible authenticity was proven false after expert analysis.
5. The ostensible unity in the team concealed underlying tensions and rivalries.
6. Their ostensible wealth, flaunted with luxury cars, was actually deep in debt.

Origin and Etymology of Ostensible

The adjective 'ostensible' has its etymology rooted in the Latin language. It is derived from the Latin word 'ostendere,' which means 'to show' or 'to display.' This etymological origin sheds light on the concept of 'ostensible' as something that appears or is shown on the surface. It suggests that what is presented may not necessarily represent the true or genuine nature of a situation or object. 'Ostensible' implies a superficial appearance that can be misleading, emphasizing the idea that things may not always be as they appear. Its Latin roots underscore the notion of displaying or showing something, which, in the case of 'ostensible,' implies a potential discrepancy between appearance and reality, making it a valuable term in discussions about appearances and underlying truths.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the adjective ostensible:

authentic

genuine

apparent

real

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Correct!

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More Usage Examples of Ostensible

1. The politician’s ostensible integrity came into question after the scandal arose.
2. Her ostensible confidence on stage masked the intense anxiety she felt within.
3. The city's ostensible prosperity hid the poverty and struggle of many residents.
4. An ostensible solution to the crisis proved inadequate when tested in reality.
5. His ostensible generosity was a façade; he was known to be quite selfish.
6. The forest’s ostensible serenity concealed the wild, untamed life within it.
7. Their ostensible friendship, filled with public smiles, hid private enmities.
8. The building’s ostensible stability was contradicted by deep structural flaws.
9. An ostensible ally in the business turned out to be a fierce competitor.
10. The ostensible reason for his visit was to borrow a book, but I think he just wanted to chat.
11. They claimed the meeting was for team building, but the ostensible purpose was to identify who was leaking information.
12. He made an ostensible effort to help, though it was clear his heart wasn’t in it.
13. The ostensible goal of the program is to educate people, but it seems more like a money-making scheme.
14. Her ostensible enthusiasm didn't fool anyone; we knew she wasn’t excited about the project.
15. The ostensible simplicity of the game hides its deeply strategic nature.
16. She gave an ostensible apology, but there was no sincerity behind her words.
17. The ostensible aim of the charity is to help children, but most of the funds seem to go to administration.
18. The medicine’s ostensible function is to relieve pain, but many use it to help them sleep.
19. He arrived early under the ostensible pretense of helping to set up, but really he just wanted first dibs on the snacks.
20. The ostensible ease of the task belies the amount of effort that is actually needed.
21. The company made ostensible changes to its policies, but the workplace culture remained the same.
22. She only made an ostensible attempt at reconciliation, without addressing the underlying issues.
23. The novel's ostensible genre is mystery, but it also incorporates elements of romance and adventure.