“So to Speak” Meaning, Origin and Examples

Last updated on October 7, 2024 by Liam Daniel

The phrase “so to speak” is a common idiom used to signal that what follows may not be strictly accurate but conveys the intended meaning. This reference provides in-depth explanations, examples of usage in everyday conversations, and visual aids to reinforce your understanding. We also provide alternative ways to express the same idea more literally.

So to Speak Meaning, Origin and Usage

Key Takeaways

  • “So to speak” is an idiomatic expression used to clarify that a phrase or statement is not meant to be taken literally but rather figuratively or in a particular sense. It often signals that the speaker is using a metaphor, exaggeration, or a less formal way of expressing something.
"So to Speak" Meaning
“So to Speak” Meaning – Created by 7ESL

So to Speak Meaning

The phrase “so to speak” is used when you want to highlight that what you’re saying isn’t quite literal. It’s like giving a wink with your words, suggesting that you aren’t speaking entirely accurately. Think of it as a way to add a touch of humor or irony to your sentence. You might use it when describing something with a twist or a bit of creativity.

Origin of this Idiomatic Expressions

The expression “so to speak” has its roots back in the 1800s. Initially, people used “so to say.” Over time, “so to speak” became more common. It started with those considered upper class, offering an apology for using what might have been seen as less refined language. So in its early days, it was a bit of self-deprecating humor or an acknowledgment of bending the rules of fancy speech.

This shift from “so to say” to “so to speak” shows the evolution of language and how people of different classes influenced it. Now, it’s a universally understood way to imply that you’re taking liberties with the language for effect. Though its origins might have been a nod to class differences, today it functions mainly as a linguistic tool to inject personality into conversations.

Usage of “So to Speak”

  • Explaining a metaphor or comparison:
    • “After the meeting, he was left in the dark, so to speak, about the final decision.” (Meaning he wasn’t literally in the dark but uninformed.)
  • Clarifying figurative language:
    • “I’ve been burning the candle at both ends, so to speak, with all this extra work.” (Meaning working excessively.)
  • In casual conversation:
    • “She’s the glue that holds the team together, so to speak.” (Not literally glue, but an essential part of the team.)

Related Terms to “So to Speak”

“So to speak” is an expression often used in conversation. Here are some related terms that you might find useful:

  • In Other Words: This phrase is used to explain something in a different way. It’s like giving a synonym or simple explanation.
  • As it Were: This expression is used when speaking metaphorically or hypothetically. It suggests a figurative meaning.
  • For Want of a Better Word: You use this phrase when you can’t find a more precise term. It shows you are approximating.
  • If You Will: When using this phrase, you’re inviting agreement on a point. It acts as a softener to suggest an interpretation.

These phrases often appear in casual language. They’re useful in making speech more engaging or clarifying a point. You can find more about them in language and grammar resources online.

Other Ways to Say “So To Speak”

Like all idiomatic sayings, there are literal ways to convey the same meaning. For instance, saying sort of, in a matter of speaking and as it were are all ways to say the same thing.

List of “So To Speak” synonyms:

  • As it were
  • If i may say
  • As they say
  • If I do say so
  • As you might say

“So to Speak” Examples

Examples in Statements

A husband stating the reason he is not allowed to go out.

  • “I can’t go out tonight. My wife is sitting on me, so to speak.”

A friend making a statement about his job.

Examples in Conversation

A husband and wife having a conversation.

  • Husband: I don’t know why our son is failing all his exams.
  • Wife: Me either. It is almost like he is deliberately trying.
  • Husband: Yes, like he some kind of brain-eating disease, so to speak.

Two friends having a conversation about work.

  • Friend 1: I hate when I have to wake up earlier to come to work.
  • Friend 2: Oh me too! It’s like I mine as well just be sleeping on my alarm clock, so to speak.

Other examples:

  • They were all very similar. All cut from the same cloth, so to speak.
  • I unlocked the secret, so to speak.
  • He is, so to speak, a hardworking student.
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