Expresses that something is probably the case based on outward signs or available information, but that there is no absolute certainty. It means roughly 'to all appearances'.
example
Anscheinend hat der letzte Bus die Haltestelle schon verlassen.
Apparently, the last bus has already left the stop.
Usage tips
Word structure
'Anscheinend' (apparently) is derived from the noun 'der Anschein' (the outward impression). It literally means 'dem Anschein nach' (to all appearances). This helps you understand that it is about an assumption based on observations.
EXAMPLE
Es hat den Anschein, als ob es bald regnen wird.
It looks as if it will rain soon.
Position in the sentence
As an adverb, 'anscheinend' (apparently) is flexible. It can stand at the beginning of the sentence (position 1), after which the verb follows. It can also stand inside the sentence after the verb and the subject.
EXAMPLE
Anscheinend ist niemand zu Hause.
Apparently, nobody is home.
Expressing assumption
With 'anscheinend' (apparently), you express that you assume something because it looks that way, but you are not one hundred percent sure. It signals a conclusion based on evidence or clues.
EXAMPLE
Sein Fahrrad ist nicht da. Anscheinend ist er schon losgefahren.
His bike isn't there. Apparently, he has already set off.
Compare with
near_synonym · confusable
anscheinend vs wohl
probably / well
'wohl' and 'anscheinend' both express an uncertain but plausible assumption. 'wohl' is more general and means that something is probably the case. 'anscheinend' is used when you infer something from outward signs or from information. The words are easy to confuse because neither states a certain fact. If you only want to express your own assessment, 'wohl' fits. If you want to say that it looks that way based on the situation, 'anscheinend' fits better.
anscheinend
Wegen der vielen Autos hat es anscheinend einen Unfall auf der Straße gegeben.
Because of all the cars, there has apparently been an accident on the road.
wohl
Sie kommt morgen wohl später zum Termin.
She will probably come to the appointment later tomorrow.