Definitions
- Used to describe something that appears to be true or real, but may not be. - Referring to something that is seemingly true, but there may be doubts or suspicions about its authenticity. - Talking about something that is outwardly or apparently true, but may have underlying motives or hidden agendas.
- Used to describe something that is believed to be true, but there may be doubts or uncertainties about its accuracy. - Referring to something that is assumed to be true, but there may be no concrete evidence to support it. - Talking about something that is widely believed to be true, but there may be conflicting opinions or perspectives.
List of Similarities
- 1Both words are adverbs used to describe something that is not necessarily true or proven.
- 2Both words suggest doubt or uncertainty about the accuracy of the information being presented.
- 3Both words can be used to express skepticism or suspicion about a claim or statement.
- 4Both words are often used in news articles, academic writing, and formal contexts.
What is the difference?
- 1Usage: Ostensibly is used to describe something that appears to be true, but may have hidden motives or agendas. Supposedly is used to describe something that is believed to be true, but there may be doubts or uncertainties about its accuracy.
- 2Connotation: Ostensibly has a negative connotation, suggesting that something is not as it seems. Supposedly has a neutral connotation, indicating that something is believed to be true, but there may be doubts or uncertainties.
- 3Frequency: Supposedly is more commonly used than ostensibly in everyday language.
- 4Formality: Ostensibly is more formal than supposedly, and is often used in academic writing or news articles.
Remember this!
Ostensibly and supposedly are both adverbs used to describe something that is not necessarily true or proven. However, the difference between the two is their usage and connotation. Ostensibly suggests that something appears to be true, but may have hidden motives or agendas, while supposedly indicates that something is believed to be true, but there may be doubts or uncertainties about its accuracy.
