Ostensible
hardNeutral toneoss-TEN-suh-bul
adjective
Definition
stated or appearing to be true, but not necessarily so
Memory hook
OSTENSIBLE: an OSTRICH holds up a SENSIBLE-looking sign that says 'I'm fine!' while hiding its head — the ostensible reason masks the real one.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“The ostensible purpose of the trip was business, but he mostly went sightseeing.”
“Her ostensible modesty masked a fierce ambition that few colleagues detected.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“The ______ purpose of the trip was business, but he mostly went sightseeing.”
Show answer
ostensible
Categories
GRE Tip
Ostensible is a hard-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "apparent" or "professed" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "actual".
Related GRE Words
evident
Plain or obvious; clearly seen or understood
aberrant
Deviating from what is normal or expected
aberration
A departure from what is normal, usual, or expected
abeyance
a state of temporary suspension or inactivity
abscond
To leave secretly and hide, especially to avoid arrest or prosecution
abstemious
Moderate in eating and drinking; self-restrained
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