ostensible
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British pronunciation
/ɒstˈɛnsəbə‍l/

Definition & Meaning of "ostensible"

ostensible
01

appearing or stated to be true or real, but potentially deceptive or misleading

example
Example
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The ostensible purpose of the meeting was to discuss new business strategies, but much of the time was spent gossiping.
Her ostensible reason for missing work was sickness, but coworkers suspected she was really hungover.
02

stated or appearing to be true, but possibly not so

example
Example
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The ostensible reason for his visit was to apologize.
She gave an ostensible smile, though she felt uneasy.
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