all-out

[ awl-out ]

adjective

1. using all one's resources; complete; total:

   an all-out effort.

   Synonyms: unstinting, unremitting, exhaustive

all-out

adjective

1. using one's maximum powers

   an all-out effort

adverb

1. to one's maximum effort or capacity

   he went all out on the home stretch

Word History and Origins

Origin of all-out¹

1905–10; adj. use of all out utterly, completely, Middle English al out

Idioms and Phrases

With all one's strength, ability, or resources; not holding back. For example, They are going all out to make the fund-raiser a success . This seemingly modern term dates from about 1300, when it meant “completely” or “wholly.” It now refers to making a great effort and is also used adjectivally, as in an all-out effort . This usage became current in America in the late 1800s, with reference to races and other kinds of athletic exertion. In the mid-1900s it gave rise to the phrase to go all out and was transferred to just about any energetic undertaking. Also see go whole hog .

Example Sentences

Maybe you’re planning a wedding, a large family gathering or just want to go all-out for the holidays.

From Los Angeles Times

Using all-out pursuit and with no concern for his body, he went airborne at the 30-yard line like he was Superman and landed on the ballcarrier from behind.

From Los Angeles Times

“He has promised retribution. This isn’t about comprehensive policy. It will be an all-out assault on the administrative state.”

From Los Angeles Times

The price to pay for all-out war with Iran would likely be higher.

From Los Angeles Times

The Chinese media are going all-out to report this election.

From Los Angeles Times

More About All-out

What does all-out mean?

All-out describes using all of your resources or energy to accomplish something, as in Talya made an all-out effort on her midterm exams.

The related phrase all out usually follows go and means to make a total effort, as in Jamal’s parents really went all out for his birthday party, treating all the guests to helicopter rides! 

Example: The away team won the game because they went for an all-out attack on the home team.

Where does all-out come from?

The first records of the term all-out come from around 1905, while the phrase all out dates back to at least 1300. It comes from the Middle English phrase al out.

An all-out effort can be either a physical or mental effort. When you put on a burst of speed at the end of a marathon, you’re physically going all-out. When you study for several weeks for a big exam, you’re mentally going all-out.

Did you know … ?

What are some synonyms for all-out?

• total
• complete
• full-blown
• full-scale

What are some words that share a root or word element with all-out? 

• all
• out

What are some words that often get used in discussing all-out?

• attack
• complete
• drive
• effort
• going

How is all-out used in real life?

All-out is a common term often used in casual conversations.

It’s an all-out race to 5G and no one knows where the finish line is.

— Marques Brownlee (@MKBHD) February 19, 2019

Vogel: "I couldn't be more proud of our group. All-out effort and perseverance." #PacersWin

— Indiana Pacers (@Pacers) April 15, 2015

I'm a firm believer in going all-out for the #MetGala. If you can't wear it here, where can you wear it? #GoBigOrGoHome

— Coco Rocha (@cocorocha) May 7, 2013

Try using all-out!

Which of the following is NOT a synonym for all-out?

A. full-blown
B. full-scale
C. maximum
D. half-hearted