ostensible
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The word “DeFiant” was a coy wink to this idea of decentralized currency, known as DeFi, the ostensible rationale for the new Trump–Witkoff platform.
From Slate ● Jul. 22, 2026
The ostensible musical connection—OK, alibi—is the show’s use of a pop classic-to-be, the Beatles’ “All You Need Is Love.”
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 30, 2026
Like that movie, “Remake” has an ostensible central subject that becomes a mere frame for his actual one.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Mar. 10, 2026
President Trump loves to define his ostensible political achievements and goals with big numbers.
From Los Angeles Times ● Nov. 18, 2025
The ostensible reason for the letter is to thank Theo for the money he’d given Pa. He’s still angry with Theo, but he can’t tolerate the separation anymore.
From "Vincent and Theo: The Van Gogh Brothers" by Deborah Heiligman
Vocabulary lists containing ostensible
The Vocabulary.com Top 1000
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300 Most Difficult "SAT" Words
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Words That Could Go Either Way: Synonyms for "Maybe"
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