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outwardly

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /ˈaʊt.wɚd.li/

KK: /ˈaʊtˌwɚdli/

adverb
Definition

In a way that relates to the outside or external appearance rather than the inner qualities.


Example

Outwardly, she seemed happy, but inside she was struggling.


Conversation
Sloth A
I always thought she seemed really confident, but I wonder if she feels nervous outwardly.
Sloth B
Yeah, sometimes people hide their true feelings behind a brave face.
Sloth A
It's interesting how we can appear one way outwardly but feel completely different inside.
Sloth B
Exactly! It’s important to remember that everyone has their own struggles.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
externally
superficially
visibly
Antonyms
inwardly
internally
privately
Root Explanation

Outwardly → It is formed from "outward" (from Old English "ūtwierþe", meaning external or outside) and "-ly" (meaning in a manner of). The word "outwardly" means in a manner that is external or visible.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'external' or 'outside' ('outward') and how it is done 'in a manner' ('-ly'). This helps you remember that 'outwardly' refers to how something appears on the outside.

Visually Confused Words
southwardly
untowardly
upwardly
towardly
onwardly
dotardly
cowardly
twarly
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