Supposedly vs. Supposedly – Which is Correct?

Understanding the difference between “supposably” and “supposedly” can enhance your writing and communication skills. While “supposedly” is a widely accepted term used to denote something assumed or claimed, “supposably” is often viewed as incorrect. This article will clarify the correct usage of these two terms and explore their meanings and origins.

Supposedly or Supposably – Which is Correct?

The word “supposedly” is the correct term to use in standard English to imply something that is assumed or believed to be true based on common understanding. On the other hand, “supposably” is often considered an incorrect form, mainly because it is used in contexts where “supposedly” is appropriate. Therefore, “supposedly” should always be the choice for proper usage.

Word	When to Use	Example
Supposedly	Used to indicate that something is assumed or thought to be true.	She is supposedly the best player on the team.
Supposably	Often seen as a misspelling of supposedly; not accepted in formal writing.	He said that the event was supposably going to be canceled.

How to Use Supposedly

“Supposedly” is used to convey that something is generally accepted or assumed without necessarily being proven. It is often used in contexts where doubt or uncertainty exists about the truth of the statement.

Example 1: The meeting is supposedly scheduled for 10 AM.

Example 2: He is supposedly a great cook, but I’ve never tasted his food.

Example 3: The movie is supposedly based on a true story.

What are the different forms of supposedly?

“Supposedly” is an adverb. It does not have different forms, but it can be modified in usage within sentences to fit various contexts.

Etymology of the word supposedly

The term “supposedly” is derived from the verb “suppose,” which comes from the Latin “supponere,” meaning “to place under.” The suffix “-edly” is added to form the adverb.

How to Use Supposably

“Supposably” is not widely accepted in standard usage. If used, it typically appears in incorrect contexts that aim to express the same meaning as “supposedly.”

Example 1: The project is supposably going to launch next month. (Incorrect usage)

Example 2: She is supposably attending the event. (Incorrect usage)

Example 3: The report is supposably accurate. (Incorrect usage)

What are the different forms of supposably?

“Supposably” is mistakenly used as an adverb but does not have accepted forms in standard English.

Etymology of the word supposably

The word “supposably” is thought to originate from a mix of “suppose” and the adverbial suffix “-ably,” but it is often regarded as a corruption of “supposedly” and lacks credible etymological support.

Practice Exercises

1. The story is __________ true according to the sources.
2. He is __________ running for office next year.
3. They said it was __________ going to rain.
4. We have __________ confirmed the meeting time.
5. She is __________ one of the top performers in her class.

Answer Key

1. supposedly
2. supposedly
3. supposedly
4. supposedly
5. supposedly

Supposedly Synonyms

Synonym	Definition
Generally	In most cases; typically.
Allegedly	As stated, but not proven.

Conclusion

In summary, while “supposedly” is the correct term to express assumption or belief, “supposably” is generally considered a mistake. Using “supposedly” will improve clarity and correctness in your writing.