more or less

1. Approximately, as in The truck will hold nine yards of dirt, more or less . This usage was first recorded in 1589.

2. Basically, essentially, as in We more or less agree on the substance of the letter . This usage was first recorded about 1225.

Example Sentences

They held meetings in Trump Tower in New York to vet candidates and policies in a more or less formal atmosphere.

From Salon

Allison Tolman plays newly promoted supervising nurse Alex, at the center of things in terms of action and authority, and more or less the stand-in for the viewer.

From Los Angeles Times

“It’s a perfect time to take advantage of some of these more or less empty office buildings.”

From Los Angeles Times

Once they’re replaced, the window will be more or less closed.

From Slate

“Coming Back to Life” starts more or less a cappella, so it’s got to be spot-on.

From Los Angeles Times