What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
patently
Example
It is patently obvious that she is lying. [patently: adverb]
Example
The company's financial troubles were patently clear to everyone. [patently: adjective]
evidently
Example
Evidently, the team did not prepare well for the game. [evidently: adverb]
Example
The evidence against the suspect was evidently strong. [evidently: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Evidently is more commonly used than patently in everyday language, and it is more versatile in terms of formality and context.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between patently and evidently?
Patently is typically associated with formal or legal language, while evidently can be used in both formal and informal contexts.