Definitions
- Used to indicate that something is said to be true, but there is no concrete evidence to support it. - Used to convey information that is based on hearsay or second-hand accounts. - Used to describe something that is rumored or alleged to have happened.
- Used to indicate that something appears to be true or real, but there may be underlying motives or hidden agendas. - Used to describe something that is presented as one thing, but may actually be something else entirely. - Used to convey a sense of doubt or skepticism about the truthfulness of a statement or situation.
List of Similarities
- 1Both words are adverbs that modify verbs or verb phrases.
- 2Both words convey a sense of uncertainty or doubt.
- 3Both words suggest that there may be more to a situation than meets the eye.
What is the difference?
- 1Meaning: Reportedly suggests that something is said to be true, while ostensibly suggests that something appears to be true but may not be.
- 2Source: Reportedly implies that the information comes from an outside source, while ostensibly implies that the information comes from the situation itself.
- 3Evidence: Reportedly suggests that there is no concrete evidence to support the claim, while ostensibly suggests that there may be hidden motives or agendas behind the claim.
- 4Usage: Reportedly is often used in news reporting or journalism, while ostensibly is more commonly used in academic or analytical writing.
- 5Tone: Reportedly is neutral in tone, while ostensibly can have a negative or skeptical connotation.
Remember this!
Reportedly and ostensibly are both adverbs that convey a sense of uncertainty or doubt. However, the difference between the two is their meaning and source. Reportedly suggests that something is said to be true without concrete evidence, while ostensibly suggests that something appears to be true but may have hidden motives or agendas behind it.
