in name only

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

At the Citrosuco plant in Polk County—which flew the Brazilian flag alongside the red, white, and blue—and at the Cutrale sites and even at Florida-based Peace River, it was basically Florida in name only.

From Slate • Apr. 20, 2026

It is especially a menace to anyone invested in securities such as longer-term Treasury bonds, which are “safe” in name only.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 11, 2026

When Gian Neglia took over as sporting director of the Las Vegas Lights in February, it was a team in name only.

From Los Angeles Times • May 7, 2024

“It’s tenure in name only at this point.”

From Salon • Dec. 4, 2023

Because, oh, my blessed, I love him and cannot bear the thought of losing him to a crazy old woman, even in name only.

From "Jacob Have I Loved" by Katherine Paterson