Outwardly
/ˈaʊtwərdli/
Definitions
2 meaningsIn a direction away from the center or inside; towards the outside.
/ˈaʊtwərdli/
In an outward manner or direction; to the outside
The branches of the tree grew outwardly.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're blowing bubbles. The bubbles go outwardly, away from your mouth! It just means something is moving or facing outwards.
👶 For kids: Going or facing towards the outside, like when you open your arms wide.
More Examples
The pressure forced the door to open outwardly.
The sculpture's design expands outwardly.
How It's Used
"The river flows outwardly towards the sea."
According to what appears to be the case; superficially; on the surface.
/ˈaʊtwərdli/
Apparently; seemingly; on the surface
He was outwardly confident, but privately he doubted his abilities.
💡 Simply: Imagine your friend is outwardly smiling but you know they're sad on the inside. This describes what you can see on the *outside* compared to what's really happening.
👶 For kids: Showing something on the outside, even if it's not what's really happening inside.
More Examples
They seemed outwardly indifferent to the news, but we knew they cared.
The building's structure appeared outwardly strong, but there were internal weaknesses.
How It's Used
"She appeared outwardly calm, but inside she was terrified."
"He acted outwardly friendly, but his intentions were questionable."
Synonyms & Antonyms
From Middle English *utwardly*, equivalent to 'outward' + '-ly'. 'Outward' itself comes from Old English *ūtweard* (towards the outside), from *ūt* (out) + *-weard* (direction).
Used since the 14th century, initially to describe physical direction, and later evolving to encompass apparent states.
Memory tip
Think of something moving *outward* from a point.
Word Origin
"Towards the outside"