1
general::
Phrased like this, in a manner of speaking, as in He was, so to speak, the head of the family, although he was only related by marriage to most of the family members. This term originally meant "in the vernacular" or "lower-class language" and was used as an aristocrat's apology for stooping to such use. [Early 1800s] Also see AS IT WERE.
American Heritage Idioms
2
general::
Phrase(s): so to speak
as one might say; said a certain way, even though the words are not exactly accurate. • John helps me with my taxes. He’s my accountant, so to speak. • I just love my little poodle. She’s my baby, so to speak.
McGrawhill's American Idioms And Phrasal Verbs