Translation guide
Expresses that something exists or is true only in title, form, or appearance, but not in reality or substance.
To say that someone or something has a title, status, or label, but lacks the actual power, function, or substance associated with it.
Attaches to a noun to mean 'in name only' or 'nominal'. Often used critically to indicate that the thing lacks real substance.
彼は名ばかりの社長だ。
He is the president in name only.
それは名ばかりの改革だった。
It was a reform in name only.
To describe rules, rights, or systems that are officially recognized but not enforced or practiced.
Refers to the official stance or principle that is publicly stated but may not reflect reality. Often used in contrast with 本音 (real intention).
それは建前上の平等だ。
It's equality in name only.
名ばかり emphasizes the lack of substance behind a title or name, while 形だけ focuses on the outward form or appearance without real function. 名ばかり is more common for roles and positions; 形だけ is used for events, procedures, or objects.
The English phrase 'in name only' cannot be directly translated word-for-word into Japanese. Using 名前だけで or 名のみで may be understood but sounds unnatural. Use the patterns above instead.
Literally 'only the form', used for things that have the outward appearance but lack real content or function.
形だけの会議だった。
It was a meeting in name only.
Means 'in the name of ~', often used when the label is misleading or euphemistic.
それは平和という名の戦争だった。
It was a war in the name of peace.
Similar to 名ばかりの, but slightly more colloquial. Emphasizes that only the name exists.
名前だけのチームだ。
It's a team in name only.
Means 'on paper' or 'documentary', implying that the reality may differ.
彼は書類上の責任者だ。
He is the person in charge in name only.
Formal term for 'nominal' or 'titular', often used in legal or business contexts.
名目上の代表者に過ぎない。
He is nothing more than a representative in name only.