ostensibly
UK[ɒˈstɛnsəbli]US[ɑːˈstɛnsəbli]
adv
used to describe a situation where something appears to be true or is stated as the reason, but may not be the real reason or truth.
Etymology
the adverb 'ostensibly' traces its lineage to the latin verb 'ostendere', a compound of 'ob-' (meaning 'in front of, toward') and 'tendere' (meaning 'to stretch, to hold out'). the literal sense was to stretch something out in front, thus to show or display it. from this concrete action, the medieval latin derivative 'ostensibilis' took on the meaning of 'showable' or 'apparent'. entering english via french influence, 'ostensible' came to mean 'apparent, professed', carrying the implication that what is shown may not be the whole truth. the adverb 'ostensibly' therefore describes an action or state that is presented or held out as the reason, while subtly hinting that the underlying reality may be different.
Analysis
this word is an adverb formed from the adjective 'ostensible' with the addition of the adverbial suffix '-ly'. the core adjective 'ostensible' is derived from the medieval latin word 'ostensibilis', meaning 'that can be shown', which itself comes from the latin verb 'ostendere', meaning 'to show, to display, to hold out'.
Examples
he was ostensibly in town for a business conference, but his real motive was to visit his family.
the meeting was ostensibly called to discuss the budget, but it quickly turned into a strategy session.
she accepted the job, ostensibly for the higher salary, though the flexible hours were a greater attraction.