There is a sense in which

I truly hate this phrase. It can usually be struck out, or replaced by 'is'. But today I noticed, in a respectable preface to a respectable edition of Shakespeare, the multiple use of 'there is a real sense in which'. I think the addition of 'real' is more British, though it doesn't redeem the usage.

There is a very real sense in which we would like to draw your attention to the fact that we are about to mention something that we could remember perfectly when we started this sentence, but which now escapes us. We trust that you will find this information useful.

Given the time of year (i.e., Halloween) this is clearly a very seasonable and felicitous topic. And yes, I can indeed confirm that there is a witch incense.

Talking of annoying phrases, my pet hate is often used by British tabloids. (celebrity female) is (celebrity male)'s "latest squeeze". It's sexist too. No male is ever a female's "latest squeeze".

>4 darrow:

The OED gives only brief attention to this usage, perhaps because it considers it American slang, but it records a first use in 1980 - ' Squeeze, close friend; favorite male or female lover or companion.'

I think that, at very least, this quotation contradicts your impression of the influence of sexism in usage of the word.

I should admit that I'm actually rather fond of the word in this context.

I should admit that I'm rather fond of being Mrs Hoochie-Pants' favourite squeeze.