VocabJLPT N1
outward appearance
Noun

Definitions

  1. 1. outward appearance
  2. 2. ostensible
This expression means "on the surface" or "officially," implying that the outward appearance or stated reason may differ from the true situation. It is used when describing something that looks a certain way publicly but may have a hidden reality behind it.

Example sentences

Sentence 1

Him saying "It's just a coincidence" only makes it more suspicious.

Sentence 2

Our company's official stance is to remain outwardly neutral.

Sentence 3

The official documents emphasize the stated objectives.

Sentence 4

The trip is officially a family outing — really, it's just my way of unwinding.

Sentence 5

Why does my boss only praise employees for appearances?