In all but name
phrase
Already, in all practical ways, except by being formally recognized or given a particular title.
He's the boss here in all but name.

Often appears as...
- he's the boss in all but name
- she's the owner in all but name
Usage tips
Idiomatic
phrase
Already, in all practical ways, except by being formally recognized or given a particular title.
He's the boss here in all but name.

Often appears as...
- he's the boss in all but name
- she's the owner in all but name
Usage tips
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 1

Cultural Variation
The phrase can have different implications in different cultures, reflecting varied formalities around titles and roles.

In her village, she's the leader in all but name, though they never officially gave her the title.
Emotional Weight
Using this phrase can imply a sense of injustice or frustration over the lack of formal recognition.

Though he had been acting captain for years, he was a captain in all but name.
Unofficial Status
The phrase often hints that while things aren't official, everyone agrees on the reality of the situation.

Their garden is a park in all but name, with everyone in the neighborhood enjoying it.
Cultural Variation
The phrase can have different implications in different cultures, reflecting varied formalities around titles and roles.

In her village, she's the leader in all but name, though they never officially gave her the title.
Emotional Weight
Using this phrase can imply a sense of injustice or frustration over the lack of formal recognition.

Though he had been acting captain for years, he was a captain in all but name.
Unofficial Status
The phrase often hints that while things aren't official, everyone agrees on the reality of the situation.

Their garden is a park in all but name, with everyone in the neighborhood enjoying it.
Cultural Variation
The phrase can have different implications in different cultures, reflecting varied formalities around titles and roles.

In her village, she's the leader in all but name, though they never officially gave her the title.
Emotional Weight
Using this phrase can imply a sense of injustice or frustration over the lack of formal recognition.

Though he had been acting captain for years, he was a captain in all but name.
Unofficial Status
The phrase often hints that while things aren't official, everyone agrees on the reality of the situation.

Their garden is a park in all but name, with everyone in the neighborhood enjoying it.
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