for all intents and purposes
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/fər ɔːl ɪnˈtents ən ˈpɜː.pə.sɪz/
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In every way that matters in practice, even if not literally or officially.
Examples
The case was for all intents and purposes over.
The old road is for all intents and purposes closed.
Their two proposals are for all intents and purposes identical.
The agreement is, for all intents and purposes, final.
She is, for all intents and purposes, the team leader.
Similar words
in practice
effectively
virtually
Meanings
Examples
The agreement is, for all intents and purposes, final.
She is, for all intents and purposes, the team leader.
The old road is for all intents and purposes closed.
Their two proposals are for all intents and purposes identical.
The case was for all intents and purposes over.
Similar words
effectively
in practice
virtually
Etymology
From a legal formula pairing intents and purposes to cover all practical aims.
FAQ
What does for all intents and purposes mean?
In every way that matters in practice, even if not literally or officially.
When is for all intents and purposes used?
Use it when something functions as true even if not formally exact.
How does for all intents and purposes differ from in effect?
In effect is shorter; for all intents and purposes stresses that small exceptions do not matter.
How is for all intents and purposes used in a sentence?
The agreement is, for all intents and purposes, final.
Is for all intents and purposes formal?
It works in both formal and everyday writing.
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