adjective
virtual
Almost or effectively so, though not strictly or officially.
With no serious rivals, her election is a virtual certainty.
Etymology
The older adjective concerns effective power. Something virtual has the practical effect of a thing without possessing its full formal status.
More examples
- The company has a virtual monopoly on local bus service.
- Heavy snow brings traffic to a virtual standstill.
- Although we are cousins, he is a virtual stranger to me.
Forms
virtual
virtually adverb — Almost entirely or in practical effect.
Similar words
- effective
- Emphasizes real operation or results rather than formal designation.
- de facto
- Emphasizes actual conditions despite a different official or legal status.