What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
ostensibility
Example
The ostensibility of his wealth was revealed to be a sham when his business went bankrupt. [ostensibility: noun]
Example
She maintained an ostensible air of confidence despite her nervousness. [ostensible: adjective]
show
Example
The circus put on a spectacular show with acrobats and clowns. [show: noun]
Example
He showed us how to solve the math problem step by step. [showed: past tense verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Show is a more commonly used word than ostensibility in everyday language. Show is versatile and can be used in various contexts, while ostensibility is less common and more formal.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between ostensibility and show?
Ostensibility is typically associated with a more formal tone, while show can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
