of all loves: Idiom Meaning and Origin

The idiom "of all loves" is a peculiar phrase that has a limited usage and is not commonly found in spoken or written language. It is primarily used in informal contexts, particularly in British English. The phrase is typically used to express surprise or intensity by emphasizing the noun it precedes. While its origin is not definitively known, it is speculated to have roots in Middle English and may have evolved from the phrase "of alle loves" which was used to intensify an emotion or feeling.

Despite not being widely known or used, the idiom "of all loves" still has distinct characteristics that can shed light on its usage and meaning. The phrase functions as an intensifier, implying a strong emotional response or reaction to the subject being discussed. It can be used both positively and negatively, depending on the context. When used positively, it can convey admiration, affection, or surprise. When used negatively, it can express frustration, disbelief, or disappointment.

Given its limited usage, "of all loves" is not commonly encountered in literature or media. However, there are some examples that can illustrate its application. In Shakespeare's play "Romeo and Juliet," the character Capulet exclaims, "O me! what fray was here? Yet tell me not, for I have heard it all. Here's much to do with hate, but more with love. Why, then, O brawling love! O loving hate! O anything, of nothing first create! O heavy lightness! Serious vanity! Misshapen chaos of well-seeming forms! Feather of lead, bright smoke, cold fire, sick health! Still-waking sleep, that is not what it is!" This passage demonstrates the use of contrasting opposites to intensify the emotion of love, a technique which resonates with the essence of the idiom "of all loves."

The idiom "of all things" is related to "of all loves" and shares a similar usage. It is used to express surprise, irony, or emphasis when something unexpected or unlikely has occurred. For example, if someone were to say, "Of all things, I ran into my old high school teacher at the grocery store," they would be expressing astonishment or disbelief at the unexpected encounter. This idiom is commonly used in informal conversations and anecdotes.

The idiom "of all places" is another related phrase that is used to express surprise or disbelief, specifically in relation to the location of an event or situation. For instance, if someone were to say, "Of all places, I found my lost keys in the refrigerator," they would be highlighting the unexpected or illogical location of the keys. This idiom is often used in casual conversations to emphasize the irony or strangeness of a situation.

Returning to the idiom "of all loves," its usage and meaning can be further understood by examining how it relates to these related idioms. The phrase "of all things" shares the common theme of expressing surprise or intensity, but whereas "of all things" emphasizes the unexpectedness of a situation or event, "of all loves" underscores the intensity of a particular emotion or feeling. Similarly, "of all places" highlights the unexpected or illogical location of an event or situation, whereas "of all loves" intensifies the emotional response to a specific subject.

By incorporating these related idioms, the idiom "of all loves" becomes more nuanced and versatile in its usage. It provides a unique way to emphasize surprise, irony, or intensity in a variety of contexts. Whether expressing admiration, frustration, or astonishment, the idiom "of all loves" adds depth and emphasis to the English language. While it may not be widely known or used, its distinct characteristics make it a valuable addition to the linguistic tapestry that makes up our everyday conversations and written expressions.