German Conversation · Level 25
90 words
German word
offenbar
Pronunciation
IPA/ˈɔfn̩ˌbaːɐ̯/
Meaning
- adverbapparently
Example
Er hat offenbar keine Zeit.
Apparently, he has no time.
More examples
Das klappt offenbar nicht.
Apparently, that doesn't work.
Core concept
Visible signs point toward a likely explanation, but the conclusion remains short of certainty.
Common phrases
offenbar nicht
apparently not
offenbar schon
apparently already
Similar words
vielleicht: Indicates that something may be true, with little confidence or supporting evidence.
wahrscheinlich: Indicates that something is likely to happen or be true.
vermutlich: Indicates a belief based on clues or circumstances, without full certainty.
anscheinend: Indicates that something appears true from its outward signs or reported information.
Definition in German
Aussagt, dass etwas aufgrund äußerer Hinweise als wahrscheinlich gilt, aber nicht sicher festgestellt ist.
Word origin
The adjective offenbar was formed from offen and -bar, with the sense of something made evident, and its unchanged form later developed regular adverbial use.
Usage tips
- At the start of a main clause, offenbar occupies the first position and the finite verb remains second, as in 'Offenbar hat er keine Zeit.'
Other meanings
- clearlyadverb
Related words
- offensichtlichobviousadjective