Supposedly vs. Apparently

Today we'll be looking at two very similar words that have slightly different usages: 

supposedly & apparently.

Supposedly

This is used when you want to express doubt. 

Supposedly, he'll be here at 6PM. (I don't think he will)

She'll supposedly finish work on time. (I doubt it)

Albert: Did Abe cancel the tax increase?

Taka: Supposedly...

Albert: What do you mean?

Taka: Well, supposedly the tax increase isn't going to happen but I think he'll try to push it through eventually.

Apparently

This is a bit more neutral than supposedly. It's used to quote or repeat something you've heard. As such, it's also often going to express elements of doubt, surprise or uncertainty: I don't know for sure but I've heard...

Apparently, a new bar's going to open in Kyoto soon.

She's apparently not going to do that movie as she hates the director.

Dan: Do you know what happened between Mark & Mindy?

Felicia: Apparently, Mindy caught Mark cheating on her!

Dan: What? No way, Mark's not that kind of guy.

Felicia: It's true, Tammy told me Mindy saw him with another woman.


These days they're both terms are usually used at the start of sentences. It sounds much more natural.

Any questions? If so, please comment.

Have a nice week,

Phil