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Ostensibly vs Supposed - What's the difference?

ostensibly | supposed |

As an adverb ostensibly

is (modal) seemingly, apparently, on the surface.

As a verb supposed is

(suppose).

As an adjective supposed is

presumed to be true, but without proof.

ostensibly

English

Adverb

(-)
  • (modal) seemingly, apparently, on the surface
  • * 1889 , Leslie Stephen, Sidney Lee, Dictionary of national biography
    • On 13 June the peshwa signed a new treaty, ostensibly complying with the demands of the British government...
  • *
    • Up to a year or two ago it had been the custom to kill horses in the yards — ostensibly for fertilizer...
  • * 2007 , Brian Herbert, Kevin J Anderson, Sandworms of Dune
    • People strive to achieve perfection — ostensibly an honorable goal — but complete perfection is dangerous. To be imperfect, but human, is far preferable.

    Synonyms

    * (seemingly) apparently, arguably, at first blush, seemingly, ostensively

    Related terms

    * ostensive

    supposed

    English

    Verb

    (head)
  • (suppose)

    • Adjective

    (-)
  • Presumed to be true, but without proof
    • Jesus is the supposed son of God.
  • (with infinitive) Generally considered or expected.
    • ''The movie is supposed to be good.
  • (with infinitive) Having an obligation.
    • You are not supposed to smoke in the restaurant.'' [Note: this means, you are obliged ''not to smoke.]
    The phone is supposed to come with a manual.
  • (with infinitive) Intended.
    • The phone is supposed to save us time.

    Derived terms

    * supposedly * supposed to

    Statistics

    * English heteronyms