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Ostensibly vs Ostentatious - What's the difference?

ostensibly | ostentatious |

As an adverb ostensibly

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

As an adjective ostentatious is

of ostentation.

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

    ostentatious

    English

    Adjective

    (en adjective)
  • Of ostentation.
  • Intended to attract notice.
  • Of tawdry display; kitsch.
    • Synonyms
    * (tawdry)

    Derived terms

    * ostensible * ostensive

    References

    * * *