adverb
apparently, evidently
B1
offenbar: adverb meaning apparently or evidently. Modal adverb expressing inference or reported knowledge (e.g., Er ist offenbar krank). Can appear sentence-initial or before verb; similar to 'anscheinend'. Not reflexive or separable. Often used to indicate the speaker's deduction rather than certain fact.
Examples
Der Bericht zeigte offenbar Fehler, obwohl die Redaktion zuvor sorgfältig gearbeitet hatte.
The report apparently showed errors, although the editorial team had worked carefully beforehand.
Er hat offenbar den Zug verpasst.
Evidently he missed the train.
Offenbar ist das Meeting abgesagt.
Apparently the meeting is canceled.
Details
Mnemonics
Picture a sign that suddenly appears, making the truth 'apparent'.
Sounds a bit like 'offen bar' — imagine a bar that is open and visible (apparent).
Notes
Offenbar is primarily used as an adverb meaning 'apparently' or 'evidently' (expressing inference). It can appear sentence-initially or before the verb and is common in reports and conversation. In some contexts it can be related to adjectival meanings, but adverbial use is most frequent.