in essence

phrase

: in or by its very nature : essentially, basically

was in essence an honest person

Examples of in essence in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Returning to the White House to lower fuel economy standards on automakers — in essence, putting the environment in harm’s way. — Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 2 Oct. 2026

Kalra’s bill would have added, in essence, an official recognition to state law that California’s water rights system ignores how land was taken from Native Americans during colonization. — Andrew Graham, Sacbee.com, 1 Oct. 2026

Though the names are similar and, in essence, the same word, the shift in spelling and pronunciation represents the nation’s effort to recast — rebrand, even — itself for its own people as much as for the outside world. — Ted Anthony, Los Angeles Times, 23 Sep. 2026

And in essence, Kris undergoes her transition, venturing from being uncomfortable in her own skin and discovering how to surrender to erotic, sometimes dangerous desires. — Randy Myers, Mercury News, 13 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1882, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for in essence

• excrescence
• fluorescence
• quiescence
• quintessence
• senescence
• acquiescence
• adolescence
• coalescence
• convalescence
• effervescence
• efflorescence
• evanescence