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gleichsam

as it were; so to speak

adverb GLYKH-zahm Rare
Grammar & Structure Adverbs

Also means

in a manner of speaking

Usage Note

Gleichsam introduces a metaphor or comparison, signalling that what follows is not literally true. It is slightly more literary than sozusagen and common in written German.

Examples

"Er war gleichsam der Fels in der Brandung der Gruppe."

Natural Translation

He was, as it were, the rock in the group's stormy sea.

Literal Translation

He was as-it-were the rock in the surf of the group.

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