ostensible Definition
stated or appearing to be true, but not necessarily so.
Using ostensible: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "ostensible" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The ostensible reason for his visit was to discuss business.
Example
The company's ostensible concern for the environment was just a PR stunt.
Example
Her ostensible happiness masked her true feelings of sadness.
Example
The ostensible leader of the group was actually just a figurehead.
ostensible Synonyms and Antonyms
Phrases with ostensible
the apparent or stated reason for doing something
Example
The ostensible purpose of the meeting was to discuss the budget, but it quickly turned into a heated debate.
the appearance or claim of having authority or power, without actually possessing it
Example
The security guard had ostensible authority to detain shoplifters, but he was not legally allowed to do so.
a person who appears to own something, but does not actually possess legal ownership
Example
The ostensible owner of the car was actually just borrowing it from a friend.
Origins of ostensible
from French 'ostensible', from Latin 'ostendere', meaning 'to show'
Summary: ostensible in Brief
The term 'ostensible' [əˈstɛnsəbl] refers to something that appears to be true or real, but may not be. It is often used to describe situations where there is a discrepancy between what is stated or shown and what is actually happening, as in 'The company's ostensible concern for the environment was just a PR stunt.' 'Ostensible' can be used in phrases like 'ostensible purpose,' which refers to the apparent reason for doing something, and 'ostensible authority,' which means the appearance of having power or control.
