Idiom: in each of the following questions, choose the alternative which best expresses the meaning of the idiom or phrase. For all intents and purposes

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: Practically

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
This question tests your understanding of a common English idiom for all intents and purposes. Idioms are fixed expressions whose overall meaning cannot always be guessed from the individual words, so you must learn their standard sense and usage.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Idiom: for all intents and purposes.
  • Options: For all businesses, Obliquely, Practically, Almost perfect.
  • The correct option should capture the sense of in effect or in practice.


Concept / Approach:
For all intents and purposes is used to say that something is true or effective in every important way, even if not formally stated. It is similar to saying practically, in effect, or basically. For example, if we say The two plans are, for all intents and purposes, the same, we mean that they are practically the same.


Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall or infer the meaning of the idiom from examples you may have seen. Step 2: Recognise that it is often used to mean effectively or practically speaking. Step 3: Compare this sense with the given options. Step 4: Choose Practically because it best represents in effect in real life terms.


Verification / Alternative check:
You can replace the idiom with Practically in sample sentences to test the fit. For instance, He is, for all intents and purposes, the leader of the group becomes He is practically the leader of the group. The meaning remains the same. This confirms that Practically is the correct choice.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • For all businesses: Changes the sense to something related to commerce; this is not the idiomatic meaning.
  • Obliquely: Means indirectly or not in a direct way, which is unrelated to in effect.
  • Almost perfect: Focuses on quality or degree of perfection, not on practical effect.


Common Pitfalls:
Some candidates misinterpret intents as intentions and then guess something about sincerity or effort. Others may choose almost perfect because they feel the phrase sounds strong and complete. The safe method is to remember that for all intents and purposes is a set phrase equal to practically or in effect in everyday English.


Final Answer:
Correct option: Practically.

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