phrase

ATF

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ATF (phrase) means an abbreviation meaning "as trustee for," used in legal and financial documents to show that an account or asset is held by one person on behalf of another. Example: “The bank account was registered "John Smith ATF Jane Smith" to hold the funds for his daughter.”

phrase

An abbreviation meaning "as trustee for," used in legal and financial documents to show that an account or asset is held by one person on behalf of another.

"The bank account was registered "John Smith ATF Jane Smith" to hold the funds for his daughter."

"Property can be listed ATF a trust rather than in an individual's own name."

How to use ATF

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishPaperwork shorthand showing that whoever is named is only holding something in trust for someone else, not owning it outright.

Common mistake

Don't confuse with the US government agency of the same initials (Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives) — context makes clear which is meant.

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The bank account was registered "John Smith _____ Jane Smith" to hold the funds for his daughter.

Frequently asked questions

What does “ATF” mean?

The word “ATF” means an abbreviation meaning "as trustee for," used in legal and financial documents to show that an account or asset is held by one person on behalf of another. In plain terms, paperwork shorthand showing that whoever is named is only holding something in trust for someone else, not owning it outright.

How do you use “ATF” in a sentence?

Here is “ATF” used in a sentence: “The bank account was registered "John Smith ATF Jane Smith" to hold the funds for his daughter.”

What part of speech is “ATF”?

“ATF” is a phrase.

What is the meaning of ATF?

"ATF" (phrase) means an abbreviation meaning "as trustee for," used in legal and financial documents to show that an account or asset is held by one person on behalf of another.

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