for all the world: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘for all the world’ mean?
The idiom "for all the world" means in the strongest or most obvious way. It is used to emphasize the certainty or truth of a statement or situation.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "the world over" means something is true or exists everywhere in the world, without any exceptions. It emphasizes the universal nature or global scope of a particular phenomenon or situation.
The idiom "in the world" is used to emphasize something by placing it in a broader context. It implies that there is no greater or more extreme example of that thing anywhere else.
The idiom "in every sense of the word" means that something is true or accurate in every possible way or aspect. It emphasizes the completeness or thoroughness of a particular statement or description.
The idiom "in all one's glory" means to be seen or presented in one's most impressive and grandiose state, showcasing all of one's achievements and qualities.
The idiom "God's green earth" refers to the entire world or the whole earth. It is often used when expressing surprise or emphasizing a point.
The idiom "for good and all" means to do something once and for all, or to fully complete or resolve a situation. It implies a final and decisive action, leaving no room for further discussion or uncertainty.
The idiom "for good" means permanently or forever. It is used to indicate that something has come to an end and will not be repeated or resumed in the future.
The idiom "for England" means to do something with extreme enthusiasm, energy, or competitiveness, often to the point of excessive zeal. It originates from the British cultural stereotype of being fiercely patriotic and eager to excel in various activities.
The idiom "for all one is worth" means to do something with all of one's ability or effort, often in a desperate or determined manner.
The Ultimate Definition
The idiom "for all the world" is a common English phrase that is used to convey a certain level of certainty or emphasis. It is typically used in the form of a phrase or sentence to describe an action or situation that appears unmistakable or undeniably true.
The exact origin of this idiom is not definitively known. However, its usage can be traced back to the 16th century in English literature. It is believed to have evolved from the earlier phrase "for all the world as," which was used in a similar context.
The idiom is considered a fixed expression, meaning that its components cannot be understood by examining its individual words. The phrase "for all the world" functions as a whole, and its meaning is specific to its usage as an idiom.
The idiom is often used in descriptive and narrative writing, as well as in everyday conversations. It can be used to emphasize the certainty of a statement or to highlight the importance of a particular situation.
For example, a person might say, "I would recognize her for all the world," to express their absolute certainty in being able to identify someone. The phrase "for all the world" emphasizes the clarity and unmistakable nature of the person's recognition.
In addition, the idiom "for all the world" can also be used in conjunction with the phrase "the world over" to further emphasize a universal or widely recognized truth or occurrence. For instance, one might say, "This monument is known for all the world over," to convey the idea that the monument is widely recognized and acknowledged across different countries and cultures.
The idiom "for all the world" can also be associated with the phrase "for good and all" to denote the finality or permanence of a certain situation. For example, one might say, "I told him off for all the world to hear, for good and all," to emphasize that the scolding was done publicly and with the intention of putting a definitive end to the matter.
Similarly, the idiom "for all the world" can be used in connection with the phrase "in the world" to intensify the impact or significance of a statement. For instance, one might say, "She looked as beautiful as a rose for all the world," to convey the idea that the person's beauty was exceptionally striking and undeniable.
While the idiom "for all the world" is widely understood and commonly used, its inherent ambiguity allows for various interpretations. The phrase can be interpreted both literally and figuratively, depending on the context in which it is used. This flexibility contributes to its enduring popularity and continued usage.
The idiom "for all the world" presents an interesting linguistic phenomenon. Its simple structure and commonly used words make it accessible and easily understood. However, its implied certainty and emphasis add depth and complexity to its meaning. The versatility of the idiom allows for creative usage and interpretation, making it a valuable tool in English language expression.
Example usage
1. For all the world, it looked like a scene from a fairy tale, with the castle perched on the hilltop and the sun setting behind it.
2. She stood there, for all the world like a Hollywood movie star, with her glamorous outfit and flawless makeup.
3. Despite his tough appearance, he had a heart of gold and would help anyone in need, for all the world like a guardian angel.
More "Adverb" idioms
