Definition

Adverbial Phrase: - In every practical sense; essentially; virtually: This phrase is used to indicate that something is true or effective in all important ways, even if it is not officially or technically the case. It emphasizes the practical reality or outcome over minor technicalities or formal distinctions.

Usage Examples

• Adverbial Phrase:
  • The project is, for all intents and purposes, complete. We are just waiting for the final signature. (The project is essentially finished, with only a minor formality remaining.)
  • After the merger, the two companies operated as a single entity for all intents and purposes. (In every practical way, they functioned as one company.)
  • To all intents and purposes, the old law is no longer enforced. (For all practical reasons, the law is inactive.)

Advanced Usage

• The phrase is often used in formal or legal contexts to summarize a situation by stating its practical effect.
• It can be used to bridge a gap between a technical definition and the observable reality.
  • The software is in beta, but for all intents and purposes, it's ready for public use.
• The variant "to all intents and purposes" is equally common and carries the exact same meaning.

Variants and Related Words

• To all intents and purposes: A direct variant with identical meaning and usage.
• For all practical purposes: A closely related phrase with a very similar meaning, often used interchangeably.
• Effectively (adv.): In such a manner as to achieve a desired result; in essence.
• Virtually (adv.): Nearly; almost entirely.

Synonyms

• Essentially
• In effect
• Practically
• In practical terms
• As good as

Related Idioms

• In every meaningful way: Conveys a similar idea of considering all important aspects.
• For all the world: Can sometimes be used similarly to mean "in every apparent respect," though it often implies a strong resemblance.

Adverb

1. in every practical sense
   • to all intents and purposes the case is closed
   • the rest are for all practical purposes useless