As it were
idiom
Used to say that a description is in some ways true, but not exactly or completely true.
He's rich and successful, living the American dream, as it were.
Often appears as...
- living the dream
- as it were
Usage tips
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 1
Pro Tip 1/3Softening Statements
Use 'as it were' to make a strong statement or opinion less direct or blunt.
She took charge of the situation, the leader, as it were.
Pro Tip 2/3Irony or Humor
It's often used to add a humorous or ironic spin to a statement.
I was the chef of the evening, as it were, with my one signature dish.
Pro Tip 3/3Imperfect Metaphors
Use when you're making a comparison that isn't literal or precise.
We navigated the shopping mall, a jungle, as it were.
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