ostensively

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "ostensively" is correct and usable in written English.
It is an adverb meaning "in a way that is intended to be seen or noticed," and is often used in legal and academic writing. For example, "The witness ostensively acknowledged the validity of the statement."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

War between the United States and Mexico over the annexation of Texas seemed imminent, and in the spring of 1845 Frémont headed a third expedition west, ostensively to explore the Great Basin and Pacific coast but also with secret instructions for action in case of war.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In its preexisting use, the concept "one foot" may be quite vague; the ostensively introduced explication may, in contrast, be relatively precise.

SEP

In addition, the hearer has to look for the contents or assumptions the speaker ostensively intends her to consider.

SEP

After all 'tree' is largely learned ostensively, and is not even part of botanical classification.

SEP

Instead, to name a trope should be likened with baptizing a child or with introducing a man "present in the flesh," i.e., ostensively (Williams 1997 [1953]: 114).

SEP

Unlike ordinary concepts, they are not susceptible of definition (except ostensively), because there are no more basic concepts in terms of which they could be defined.

SEP

What entitles us to assume that a private linguist could even ostensively define his sign to himself in the first place?

SEP

It is not possible to define a word ostensively, for that person does not perceive in the world those objects which we perceive as belonging to the scope of the term defined.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "ostensively" to introduce a stated reason or purpose, especially when you suspect or know there's an ulterior motive. It adds a layer of critical analysis to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "ostensively" when you mean simply 'apparently' or 'obviously'. The word carries a specific connotation of pretense or a hidden agenda, so ensure that context is clear.

Linguistic Context

The adverb "ostensively" primarily functions to modify verbs or clauses, indicating the stated purpose or reason for an action, often implying a discrepancy between the stated reason and the actual underlying motive. Ludwig provides examples of this usage.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

38%

Encyclopedias

25%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

News & Media

12%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "ostensively" is an adverb that signals a stated reason or purpose, often with an underlying implication of a different, perhaps less obvious, motive. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and its prevalent use in formal writing, particularly in scientific and encyclopedic contexts. While often used interchangeably with "ostensibly", the core meaning involves an outward appearance that may conceal a deeper reality. To avoid misusing this term, ensure the context genuinely suggests a hidden agenda rather than simple appearance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ostensibly

Very close synonym, nearly interchangeable but might carry a slightly stronger implication of hidden motives.

apparently

Indicates something appears to be true based on the available information, but might not actually be so.

seemingly

Suggests an appearance that may or may not be accurate, similar to "apparently" but can imply more doubt.

purportedly

Implies that something is claimed to be true by someone, but there's uncertainty about its validity.

professedly

Emphasizes the act of claiming something, which may or may not be genuine.

allegedly

Used when reporting something that has been claimed but not yet proven, often in legal or news contexts.

as a pretext

Indicates the given reason is not the real reason, serving as a cover for the true purpose.

under the guise of

Highlights that something is done with a deceptive outward appearance or pretense.

on the surface

Focuses on the initial or outward appearance of something, suggesting deeper complexities exist.

by all accounts

Indicates something is true based on what many people say, though not necessarily verified.

FAQs

How to use "ostensively" in a sentence?

"Ostensively" is used to describe an action or reason that is presented as the true one, but may be hiding a different motive. For instance, "He went to the library, "ostensively" to study, but really to meet a friend".

What can I say instead of "ostensively"?

You can use alternatives like "apparently", "seemingly", or "professedly" depending on the context. These alternatives also imply a possible difference between appearance and reality.

Which is correct, "ostensively" or "ostensibly"?

"Ostensibly" and "ostensively" are often used interchangeably, but "ostensibly" is the more common and accepted spelling. "Ostensively" is less frequently used, but not necessarily incorrect.

What's the difference between "ostensively" and "apparently"?

While both "ostensively" and "apparently" suggest something might not be as it seems, "ostensively" carries a stronger implication of deliberate pretense or a hidden motive. "Apparently" simply indicates something appears to be true based on available information.