de facto

/di:'fæktou/

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Sure! Let's break down the word "de facto" in a simple way.

Definition:

"De facto" is a Latin phrase that means "in fact" or "in reality." It is used to describe something that exists or happens in practice, even if it is not officially recognized or established by law.

Usage:

1. As an adjective: It describes a situation that is true in practice, even if it isn't formal or legal.

   • Example: "In some cities, there is de facto segregation in schools, meaning that students are separated by race even if there is no law enforcing it."

2. As an adverb: It is used to explain that something is true in reality or fact.

   • Example: "The group was, de facto, the ruling party, even though they were not officially recognized."

Advanced Usage:

• "De facto" is often used in discussions about politics, law, and social issues to indicate situations that exist outside of formal recognition or structure.

Word Variants:

• There are no direct variants of "de facto," but you might see it used in different contexts, such as in phrases like "de facto leader" or "de facto standard."

Different Meanings:

• While "de facto" primarily relates to situations existing in practice, it can also imply a sense of acceptance of a status quo, even if it is not officially sanctioned.

Synonyms:

• Some synonyms for "de facto" include:
  • In practice
  • In reality
  • Actual
  • Effectively

Related Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• There are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs that directly include "de facto," but you might encounter related phrases like:
  • "In practice": This means the same as "de facto," emphasizing how things function in reality.

Summary:

In summary, "de facto" is a useful term when you want to describe something that is true in reality, regardless of whether it is officially recognized.

Academic

Adjective

1. existing in fact whether with lawful authority or not
   • de facto segregation is as real as segregation imposed by law
   • a de facto state of war

Adverb

1. in reality or fact
   • the result was, de facto, a one-party system