in name

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in name" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to indicate that something is true in title or designation but not necessarily in reality or practice. Example: "He is the leader in name, but others make the decisions." Alternative expressions include "in title" and "nominally."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Yes, but not in name.

The New York Times

— fiscal conservative in name only".

The New Yorker

In name only, I guess".

The New Yorker

This was competitive in name only.

Independent

"We are Iraqis in name only".

The New York Times

It was a hit in name only.

The New York Times - Sports

Both will be deputies in name only.

The Economist

But it would be in name only.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

Enter your name and Gmail log-in name.

WikiHow

Joe Lieberman leads the field in name-recognition.

The Economist

Do not engage in name-calling.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in name" when you want to emphasize a contrast between a formal designation and actual practice. It adds a layer of nuance, suggesting things aren't always what they seem.

Common error

Avoid using "in name" interchangeably with phrases like "in reality" or "actually". "In name" specifically highlights a discrepancy between title and function, not a general statement of fact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in name" typically functions as an adverbial phrase. According to Ludwig AI, it modifies a noun or verb to indicate that something exists or is true only in a formal or titular sense, not necessarily in reality.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in name" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to highlight a contrast between a formal title or designation and the actual reality or function. As per Ludwig AI, it indicates that something exists nominally but lacks genuine substance or authority. It's prevalent in news, business, and professional contexts. Related phrases include "nominally" and "in title only". When using this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects a discrepancy between title and function, not just a general statement of fact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

nominally

Single word alternative that conveys the idea of something existing or being true in name only, often implying a contrast with reality.

in title only

Focuses on the formal designation or title being different from the actual power or function.

formally

Similar to 'nominally' but emphasizes adherence to a formal designation rather than a practical reality.

ostensibly

Highlights the apparent or professed reason or characteristic, which may conceal a different reality.

in appearance only

Emphasizes that the actual nature of something differs from its outward appearance.

by designation

Indicates that something is identified in a particular way but might not function as such.

in theory

Contrasts with practice, suggesting that something is true according to a theory but not necessarily in reality.

so-called

Expresses skepticism or doubt about the accuracy or appropriateness of a particular name or designation.

for all intents and purposes

Suggests that something is effectively equivalent to something else, despite potential differences in name or form.

on paper

Highlights that something may appear to be the case according to official records but may not be true in practice.

FAQs

How to use "in name" in a sentence?

Use "in name" to express that something is nominally true but not necessarily so in practice. For example, "He's the CEO "in name only"; the board makes all the decisions."

What's the difference between "in name" and "in reality"?

"In name" indicates a title or designation that doesn't align with the true situation, while "in reality" points to what's actually happening, often contrasting with appearances. For example, "He's the leader "in name", but "in reality", she's the one running the show."

What can I say instead of "in name"?

Alternatives include "nominally", "in title only", or "formally", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "president in name only"?

Yes, "president in name only" is a correct and commonly used expression to describe someone who holds the title of president but lacks real power or authority.