the world over: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘the world over’ mean?
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.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "worlds apart" means to be completely different or opposite from each other.
The idiom "too good for this world" is used to describe someone who is exceptionally kind, pure-hearted, or virtuous, to the extent that their qualities and actions seem too extraordinary for the flawed or corrupt world they live in.
The idiom "to go" means to leave a place or to travel to a different location. It can also refer to the outcome or result of a situation or event. The exact meaning depends on the context in which it is used.
"Today we are all" is an idiomatic phrase that emphasizes a sense of unity or shared experience among a group of people in the present moment.
The idiom "to a T" means exactly or perfectly, often used to describe something that is done or fits perfectly without any flaws or errors.
The idiom "to all intents and purposes" means essentially or practically. It is used to emphasize that something is virtually true or almost certain.
The idiom "think the world of" means to have a very high opinion or admiration for someone or something.
The idiom "think over" means to carefully consider or ponder something before making a decision or forming an opinion.
The idiom "the whole world and his dog" means that a large number of people or a crowd of people, including unexpected ones, are present in a particular place or are interested in something.
The idiom "the sun sets on something" means that something is coming to an end or reaching its completion.
Deciphering Globally
The idiom "the world over" has several meanings and uses in English language. It is commonly used to indicate that something occurs or applies everywhere in the world. It expresses a universal perspective, emphasizing the widespread nature of a particular phenomenon or belief. For example, one might say "Pizza is loved in the world" to convey that pizza is popular and enjoyed by people all over.
In addition to its literal meaning, "the world over" is used to describe a situation or condition that is applicable to all countries or cultures. It emphasizes the global impact or relevance of a particular issue or topic. For instance, one might say "Environmental degradation is a concern for all the world" to highlight that environmental problems are not limited to a specific region or nation.
"the world over" can also be used to emphasize the universality of a concept or idea. It is often used to make a sweeping generalization or to assert a statement with authority. For example, one might use this idiom to say "Good health is important for everyone all over" to underscore the importance of health for all people, regardless of their nationality or location.
Furthermore, the phrase "the world over" is often used in formal or literary contexts, rather than in everyday conversation. It adds elegance and sophistication to the language, making it more suitable for written or public discourse. It can be found in literature, journalism, and academic texts.
It is interesting to consider the etymology of the idiom "the world over." The word "world" originates from the Old English word "weorold," which is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "weraldi." The concept of "the world" has been central in human cultures and societies throughout history, with various meanings and interpretations. The addition of "over" in the idiom serves to emphasize the all-encompassing nature of the world or to describe something that extends beyond geographical boundaries.
Overall, the idiom "the world over" is a powerful and versatile phrase in the English language. It is used to express universality, highlight global significance, and make authoritative statements. Whether used in its literal or figurative sense, this idiom captures the imagination and fascination humans have with the concept of the world.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "the world over" can be used in a sentence:
- People enjoy watching sports the world over.
- Universities are closing their campuses the world over due to the pandemic.
- Music has the power to connect people the world over.
More "Location" idioms
