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

Snyder argued that Girardi was running the firm in name only and called it a “Weekend at Bernie’s” situation where partners at the firm were “propping him up to keep the party going.”

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 27, 2024

Christmas in Kupiansk is a celebration in name only.

From BBC • Dec. 25, 2023

He seemed a druggist in name only; he more closely fit the prevailing ideal of the self-made man who through hard work and invention pulled himself rung by rung into the upper strata of society.

From "The Devil in the White City" by Erik Larson