for all intents and purposes

Definition from Wiktionary, a free dictionary

Contents 1 English 1.1 Alternative forms 1.2 Etymology 1.3 Adverb 1.3.1 Synonyms

[edit] English

[edit] Alternative forms

• to all intents and purposes (UK)
• sometimes misconstructed as "for all intensive purposes".

[edit] Etymology

1500s, English law, originally “to all intents, constructions, and purposes” (found in an act adopted under Henry VIII in 1547).

[edit] Adverb

for all intents and purposes (not comparable)

1. (idiomatic, US) For every functional purpose; in every practical sense; in every important respect; practically speaking.

   For all intents and purposes the case is closed.

   This treaty is for all intents and purposes no longer viable.

[edit] Synonyms

• effectively, essentially, in essence, in effect, practically, virtually