for all practical purposes
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Adverb:
- In every practical sense; essentially; virtually. This phrase indicates that while a situation might not be technically or theoretically absolute, it is true or effective in all ways that matter for real-world application or consideration.
Usage
The phrase "for all practical purposes" is used to qualify a statement, emphasizing its practical truth or consequence even if minor exceptions or theoretical distinctions exist. It signals that the described condition is functionally equivalent to being completely true.
Examples
- Adverb:
- The old software is no longer supported, so for all practical purposes, it is obsolete.
- With the bridge washed out, the two towns are for all practical purposes isolated from each other.
- The negotiations are complete; for all practical purposes, the deal is done.
Advanced Usage
- Used to bridge a slight gap between technicality and reality. It often precedes a conclusion drawn from the practical effects of a situation.
- The law is still on the books, but it is never enforced, so for all practical purposes, it has been repealed.
- Can be used in formal and informal contexts to add precision to a claim.
Variants and Related Phrases
- To all intents and purposes: A direct synonym with identical meaning and usage.
- The merger is finalized; to all intents and purposes, they are now one company.
Synonyms
- Effectively
- Virtually
- In effect
- Practically speaking
- As good as
Related Idioms
- For all intents and purposes: This is the full, traditional form of the idiom. "For all practical purposes" is a common variant.
- The prototype is finished; for all intents and purposes, it's ready for testing.
Adverb
- in every practical sense
- to all intents and purposes the case is closed
- the rest are for all practical purposes useless