NSW Opportunity Class

Learn “Ostensible

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NSW Opportunity Class

Ostensible

adjective/os-ten-suh-buhl/

stated or appearing to be true, but not necessarily so.

The ostensible reason for his visit was business, but he mainly wanted to see her.

From Latin ostendere, 'to show' — the ostensible reason is the one shown on the surface.

Signals doubt: 'the ostensible reason...'; usually sits before reason, purpose or aim.