Some of the cases are essentially symbolic, ending in huge civil verdicts that may never be collected.

There are constitutional limitations and the job is essentially symbolic.

Republicans argued that the Democrats' triumph was essentially symbolic.

Detargeting itself, though considered part of "confidence building" between nations, is essentially symbolic, since missiles can be retargeted again in minutes, experts in nuclear weapons have said.

She has no real political influence, and her position is essentially symbolic.

Twenty-one states have recently acted to make English the official language, with most provisions being essentially symbolic.

Some allies of the United States are also sending troops, though in some cases their moves are essentially symbolic.

Mr. Fish said that because even proponents admit the new rule is essentially symbolic, implementation would be an unwarranted threat to free speech.

Some analysts said bankers saw Mr. Ogilvy's title as essentially symbolic because he was not involved in the running of the company.

The passion of the dispute was undiminished by its essentially symbolic nature.