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de-facto

adjective

/deɪ ˈfaktəʊ/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of de-facto

Existing in practice, even if not officially recognized or legal.
"The city was the de facto capital, even though it was not officially recognized as such."

Detailed meaning of de-facto

"De facto" is a Latin phrase that translates to "in fact" or "in reality." It is used to describe a situation or condition that exists in practice, even if it is not officially recognized or legal. It is often used to refer to something that is not officially sanctioned or approved, but is still in common use or practice. For example, a de facto government is one that is in power and controls a country, but may not have been legally or constitutionally established. Similarly, a de facto leader is someone who is not officially recognized as such, but who is still leading or controlling a group or organization. The term is also commonly used in the context of relationships, to refer to an informal or unofficial partner, or cohabiting couples who are not married. De facto can also be used to describe a situation or standard that is accepted as a norm even if it has no legal basis.

Example sentences containing de-facto

1. The de-facto leader of the team made all the decisions.
2. She was the de-facto spokesperson for the organization.
3. The de-facto capital of the country is often mistaken for the official capital.
4. His de-facto control over the company allowed him to make significant changes.
5. The de-facto standard for communication is email.
6. The de-facto policy of the school regarding cell phones is to confiscate them.

History and etymology of de-facto

The adjective 'de facto' has its etymological roots in Latin. It combines 'de,' meaning 'from' or 'concerning,' and 'factum,' which translates to 'a deed' or 'an act.' In essence, 'de facto' signifies 'concerning the fact' or 'in practice.' This term is used to describe situations or conditions that exist in reality or in practice, even if they are not officially recognized or legal. It acknowledges that while something may not have formal or legal status, it is the prevailing or accepted state of affairs. The etymology of 'de facto' captures its essence as a term that addresses the actual, on-the-ground circumstances, regardless of their official or legal standing.

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Further usage examples of de-facto

1. Despite not having the official title, he was the de-facto manager of the department.
2. The de-facto ruler of the small island nation wielded significant power.
3. Their de-facto monopoly in the industry made it difficult for competitors to enter the market.
4. The de-facto curfew imposed by the parents prevented the teenagers from staying out late.
5. She became the de-facto expert on the subject after years of research.
6. The de-facto agreement among the group was to take turns leading the project.
7. The de-facto language of business in the region was English.
8. The de-facto ban on smoking in public places was widely accepted.
9. The de-facto border between the two countries was heavily fortified.
10. Despite his lack of official credentials, he was the de-facto doctor of the village.
11. The de-facto tax on imported goods made them more expensive for consumers.
12. She was the de-facto winner of the competition, having outperformed all other contestants.
13. The de-facto dress code for the event was formal attire.
14. The de-facto leader of the protest movement inspired thousands of people to join.