be-all and end-all

[ bee-awl uhnd end-awl ]

noun

1. the central and all-important part:

   His work was the be-all and end-all of his existence.

be-all and end-all

noun

1. the ultimate aim or justification

   to provide help for others is the be-all and end-all of this group

2. humorous.
   a person or thing considered to be beyond improvement

Word History and Origins

Origin of be-all and end-all¹

First recorded in 1595–1605

Example Sentences

"That will be the be-all and end-all. He'll be judged on winning tournaments. If he doesn't he'll be deemed a failure. That's just the height of expectation of being an England manager."

From BBC

Drought Monitor shouldn’t be the be-all and end-all for decision-making, and should continue be paired with reservoir observations, snow surveys and other measurements to form a complete picture.

From Los Angeles Times

Everything after this will feel more manageable, even Ireland at the end of the pool stage, which is the be-all and end-all now, presuming Scotland put away Tonga and Romania.

From BBC

"I have sometimes felt that snooker is the be-all and end-all, but this has made me realise how lucky I am, and it has freed me up to just enjoy the game."

From BBC

And certainly, I wanted everyone in the world to see the films when they come out — that's a natural way to be — but it's not the be-all and end-all.

From Salon