Synonyms of on the surface

on the surface

phrase

as in seemingly

to all outward appearances

On the surface they seem to have a fairytale marriage, but those close to them know it isn't so simple.

Synonyms & Similar Words

• seemingly
• ostensibly
• supposedly
• apparently
• presumably
• evidently
• maybe
• visibly
• likely
• perhaps
• probably
• putatively
• obviously
• ostensively
• possibly
• outwardly
• externally
• clearly
• allegedly
• distinctly
• surely
• reportedly
• perchance
• credibly
• conceivably
• purportedly
• plainly
• positively
• manifestly
• reputedly
• supposably
• professedly
• presumedly
• believably
• assuredly
• mayhap
• self-evidently
• assumably

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• incredibly
• impossibly
• improbably
• implausibly

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of on the surface

The British are very polite on the surface and very reticent to say things. — Zac Ntim, Deadline, 29 July 2026

The fabric also has a spill-resistant treatment that keeps liquid on the surface long enough to blot with a dry cloth. — Ryan Brennan, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 23 July 2026

The patterns on vinyl floors are only on the surface, while linoleum’s patterns go all the way through the material. — Daley Quinn, Southern Living, 23 July 2026

The weird part is that some of the numbers look OK on the surface. — Grant Brisbee, New York Times, 23 July 2026