Outwardly (Adverb)

Meaning ¹

In outward appearance; "outwardly, she appeared composed".

Examples

• Outwardly, the house looked perfectly normal, but inside it was a different story.
• Outwardly, he was calm and collected, but his mind was racing with anxiety.
• Outwardly, they seemed to be a happy couple, but rumors of infidelity had been circulating.
• Outwardly, the new policy appeared to be a positive change, but many employees had their doubts.
• Outwardly, she appeared confident and self-assured, but in reality, she was struggling with self-doubt.

Antonyms

• Inwardly

Related Words

• Outward (adjective)

Meaning ²

With respect to the outside; "outwardly, the figure is smooth".

Examples

• The company appeared to be thriving outwardly, but financially it was struggling.
• Outwardly, the building looks like a grand mansion, but inside it's surprisingly modest.
• The politician was outwardly confident during the debate, but her team was worried.
• Outwardly, she seemed unaffected by the news, but inside she was seething with anger.
• The new policy seems outwardly benign, but its implications are likely to be far-reaching.

Synonyms

• Externally