end-all

[ end-awl ]

noun

1. the ultimate purpose, object, or conclusion:

   Money is the be-all and end-all of his existence.

2. something that brings things to such an end or conclusion.

end-all

noun

1. short for be-all and end-all

Word History and Origins

Origin of 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

“Ultimately,” she said, “I am an optimist. I believe there are many solutions. Streaming is not the end-all, be-all.”

From Los Angeles Times

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

“Our analysis should definitely not be taken as a comprehensive be-all, end-all of what fire risk is in California, or fire weather risk, because there are so many other variables,” she said.

From Los Angeles Times

“I would hope that any administration in the future would not see tariffs as the end-all answer,” she said, “because it’s not.”

From Seattle Times