so to speak
idiom
—used to indicate that one is using words in an unusual or figurative way rather than a literal way
We need to be all on the same wavelength, so to speak.
Examples of so to speak in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
That transfer of power, so to speak, from artist to audience is what rekindled Bingham’s love of songwriting.
—
Josh Crutchmer, Rolling Stone, 17 Feb. 2026
Of course, shiplap that came with the house, so to speak, is an exception—original character will always be in style.
—Quincy Bulin, Southern Living, 8 Feb. 2026
The three-time Olympic medalist has fought injuries for much of her career and seems prepared to leave it all on the mountain, so to speak.
—Eric Vilas-Boas, Vulture, 7 Feb. 2026
But what was not fine was García’s decision to announce his exit at the last possible moment, thus clearing the way, so to speak, for his chief of staff, Patty García.
—The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 4 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for so to speak
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Josh Crutchmer, Rolling Stone, 17 Feb. 2026
Of course, shiplap that came with the house, so to speak, is an exception—original character will always be in style.
—Quincy Bulin, Southern Living, 8 Feb. 2026
The three-time Olympic medalist has fought injuries for much of her career and seems prepared to leave it all on the mountain, so to speak.
—Eric Vilas-Boas, Vulture, 7 Feb. 2026
But what was not fine was García’s decision to announce his exit at the last possible moment, thus clearing the way, so to speak, for his chief of staff, Patty García.
—The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 4 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for so to speak
Cite this Entry
“So to speak.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/so%20to%20speak. Accessed 25 Feb. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
