superficial / ostensible
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ostensible
Recognizable on the surface or at first glance, but often not representing the real, deeper cause or truth. It describes something that seems obvious but may be misleading or distract from more important aspects.
Vordergründig ging es bei dem Streit nur ums Geld, doch in Wahrheit war es ein Machtkampf.
Ostensibly, the argument was only about money, but in truth it was a power struggle.
The word is made up of 'Vordergrund' (foreground) and the ending '-ig' (-y / -ic). Literally, it describes something that is visible only in the foreground, that is, on the surface.
Das war nur ein vordergründiger Grund für ihre Entscheidung.
That was only a superficial reason for her decision.
'Vordergründig' (superficial / ostensible) belongs to a rather elevated or analytical style of language. You often find it in discussions, reports, or texts that analyze causes and effects.
Die vordergründige Ruhe in der Stadt täuschte über die wahren Probleme hinweg.
The superficial calm in the city masked the real problems.
'Vordergründig' (ostensibly) is very often used to introduce a contrast. The superficial aspect is then followed by the real, deeper reason, often introduced by words such as 'aber' (but), 'eigentlich' (actually), or 'in Wahrheit' (in truth).
Vordergründig stritten sie über die Urlaubsplanung, aber eigentlich ging es um ihre Beziehung.
Ostensibly, they were arguing about vacation planning, but actually it was about their relationship.
actually / really
'eigentlich' and 'vordergründig' form a contrast here between the real meaning and the outward impression. 'eigentlich' means what is really the case, even if it seems different at first. 'vordergründig' describes what you see at first glance or give as a reason, but which is not necessarily the deeper truth. The words can be confused because both are often used when something is not quite as it seems. 'eigentlich' points more to the real situation behind it. 'vordergründig' points more to the surface or the first impression.
Vordergründig geht es um die Kosten, aber der eigentliche Grund ist fehlendes Vertrauen.
Ostensibly, it is about the costs, but the real reason is a lack of trust.
Laura wollte eigentlich nur Brot kaufen, aber dann nahm sie noch Obst mit.
Laura actually only wanted to buy bread, but then she picked up some fruit too.