In a manner of speaking
phrase
Indicates that something just said is true, but not exactly or in the usual sense.
She lives here, in a manner of speaking. She stays here some nights, but she really lives in the city.
Often appears as...
- live here
- in a manner of speaking
Usage tips
Idiomatic
phrase
Used to suggest that something is not strictly true but gives a fair or acceptable description or interpretation.
In a manner of speaking, we could describe this situation as a war.
Often appears as...
- describe as
- in a manner of speaking
Usage tips
Idiomatic
phrase
Indicates that something just said is true, but not exactly or in the usual sense.
She lives here, in a manner of speaking. She stays here some nights, but she really lives in the city.
Often appears as...
- live here
- in a manner of speaking
Usage tips
Idiomatic
phrase
Used to suggest that something is not strictly true but gives a fair or acceptable description or interpretation.
In a manner of speaking, we could describe this situation as a war.
Often appears as...
- describe as
- in a manner of speaking
Usage tips
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Nuanced Truth
Used when the truth is not straightforward but has some complexity or subtlety.
He's the owner, in a manner of speaking, though the bank holds the mortgage.
Pro Tip 2/3Softening Statements
Softens a statement that might be too direct or harsh.
You're responsible for this disaster, in a manner of speaking.
Pro Tip 3/3Conversational Tone
Often used in casual conversation to indicate a relaxed approach to the subject.
We're broke, in a manner of speaking—time to start saving!
Pro Tip 1/3Nuanced Truth
Used when the truth is not straightforward but has some complexity or subtlety.
He's the owner, in a manner of speaking, though the bank holds the mortgage.
Pro Tip 2/3Softening Statements
Softens a statement that might be too direct or harsh.
You're responsible for this disaster, in a manner of speaking.
Pro Tip 3/3Conversational Tone
Often used in casual conversation to indicate a relaxed approach to the subject.
We're broke, in a manner of speaking—time to start saving!
Pro Tip 1/3Nuanced Truth
Used when the truth is not straightforward but has some complexity or subtlety.
He's the owner, in a manner of speaking, though the bank holds the mortgage.
Pro Tip 2/3Softening Statements
Softens a statement that might be too direct or harsh.
You're responsible for this disaster, in a manner of speaking.
Pro Tip 3/3Conversational Tone
Often used in casual conversation to indicate a relaxed approach to the subject.
We're broke, in a manner of speaking—time to start saving!
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