What is the difference in usage between these idioms - all intents and or

The idioms "all intents and purposes" and "to all intents and purposes" are often used interchangeably, but there is a subtle difference in their usage:

* "All intents and purposes" is typically used as a phrase, meaning *for practical purposes*, *in every significant way*, or *effectively*.

* Example: "The building was all intents and purposes abandoned."

* "To all intents and purposes" is used as a prepositional phrase, and it emphasizes that something is true even though it's not officially acknowledged or stated.

* Example: "He was to all intents and purposes the leader, even though he wasn't formally appointed."

While the difference is subtle, using "to all intents and purposes" adds a nuance of impliedness, suggesting that something is true despite a lack of formal confirmation.

Here's a breakdown of the subtle difference:

* "All intents and purposes": Focuses on the practical reality of a situation.

* "To all intents and purposes": Emphasizes that a situation is true even though it's not explicitly stated.

In most contexts, either phrase can be used, and the meaning will be largely the same. However, when you want to specifically highlight the implied nature of a situation, "to all intents and purposes" might be a better choice.