adjective

apparent

Seeming to be true or real, but not necessarily so.

Her apparent calm hides considerable worry.

Etymology

The source verb concerns what appears before us. This sense focuses on outward appearance, allowing that closer examination may reveal a different reality.

More examples

The apparent bargain carried several hidden charges.
Their apparent agreement fell apart during the vote.
The apparent winner was later disqualified.

Forms

apparent

apparently adverb — as seems to be the case

Similar words

seeming: Emphasizes appearance without confirming reality.
ostensible: Often hints that the stated appearance hides another reality.