How to Pronounce Ostensibly

To pronounce "ostensibly", say OST-ens-ibly — 3 syllables, IPA /ɒˈstɛn.sɪ.bli/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

ostensibly

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Accent

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Speed

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3

Syllables

10

Letters

/ɒˈstɛn.sɪ.bli/

IPA

💡 Tip for remembering “ostensibly”

"ostensibly" has 3 syllables: ost-ens-ibly. It rhymes with sensibly and incomprehensibly, if that helps it stick.

What does ostensibly mean?

adverb

  1. (modal) Seemingly, apparently, on the surface.

Synonyms

apparentlyarguablyat first blushseemingly

Hear “ostensibly” in real sentences

Real example sentences from Tatoeba (CC-BY) — tap to hear each one, or see it used on YouGlish.

Words that rhyme with ostensibly

Practicing rhymes trains the same ending sounds.

sensiblyincomprehensibly

Related words

seeminglyapparentlymarkedlyconspicuouslyappearancevisiblydemonstrablyevidently

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "ostensibly"?▾

"Ostensibly" has 3 syllables: ost · ens · ibly.

What is the IPA transcription of "ostensibly"?▾

The IPA transcription of "ostensibly" is /ɒˈstɛn.sɪ.bli/.

What does "ostensibly" mean?▾

Ostensibly: (modal) Seemingly, apparently, on the surface.

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