apparently

"Apparently" is a very useful adverb with two closely related but distinct meanings. You'll hear and read it constantly in everyday English — it's one of those words that adds a lot of nuance to what you're saying.

1adverbbased on what others say

Use this when you are sharing information that you heard from someone else, or read somewhere — but you did not see or experience it yourself. It signals: 'This is what I was told, but I can't personally confirm it.' Think of it as a polite way of saying 'people say that...' or 'I heard that...'

everyday language · Modern, widely used

Apparently, the new restaurant on Main Street is excellent — everyone is talking about it.

He apparently called the office three times, but no one answered.

Apparently, the meeting has been cancelled. I just heard from a colleague.

2adverbbased on how things look or seem

Use this when something seems true from what you can observe, but you are not completely certain. You are making a judgment based on appearances or evidence. It's like saying 'it looks like...' or 'it seems that...'

everyday language · Modern, widely used

She was apparently tired, because she kept yawning throughout the lecture.

The door was open and the lights were on — apparently, someone was still inside.

Apparently, the project is going well, judging by the team's relaxed mood.