All aboard

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "All aboard" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used as a call to indicate that everyone should get on a vehicle, especially trains or boats, before departure. Example: "As the train conductor, I shouted, 'All aboard!' to signal that it was time for passengers to board the train."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

ALL aboard!

The New York Times

(Ages 5 to 7) ALL ABOARD!

The New York Times - Books

For passengers aged two and up, ALL ABOARD!

The Guardian

All Aboard for the Holiday Express!

The New York Times - Arts

All Aboard ONBOARD NEW YORK CITY [phone], onboardnewyorktours.com.

The New York Times - Arts

All Aboard The Wii Train [kotaku].

TechCrunch

All Aboard The Micro-Message Bus.

TechCrunch

All Aboard The Micro-Message Bus moderators: Erick Schonfeld, Steve Gillmor.

TechCrunch

Events 'All Aboard!

The New York Times - Arts

In All Aboard!

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

The customer facing the all-aboard is given priority over the one with time to spare.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "All aboard" when you want to signal that it's time for people to get on a vehicle (train, boat, etc.) and prepare for departure. It adds a touch of traditional charm.

Common error

Avoid using "All aboard" in situations where literal boarding isn't involved. For instance, don't say "All aboard for the meeting!" unless you're being intentionally humorous or metaphorical.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "All aboard" functions primarily as an interjection or a call to action. It's used to signal that it's time to board a vehicle or, metaphorically, to join an activity or idea. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a phrase to get aboard the train or boat as it is leaving soon.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Formal & Business

15%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "All aboard" is a call to action, typically used to signal that it is time to board a vehicle or, metaphorically, to join an activity. Ludwig AI confirms that the expression is used to prompt people to board a train or boat before departure. While generally neutral to informal, the phrase's usage spans from news reports to everyday conversations. It is grammatically correct and commonly used, making it a versatile addition to one's vocabulary. Related phrases such as "everyone on board" and "time to embark" offer suitable alternatives depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Everyone on board

This alternative directly specifies that everyone should be on the vehicle.

Ready for departure

Highlights the state of being prepared to leave.

Time to embark

Focuses on the act of getting on board, suitable for formal announcements.

Let the journey begin

Emphasises the commencement of a journey.

Let's get going

A more general expression indicating the start of a journey or activity.

Departure time

Emphasises the scheduled time for leaving.

Boarding completed

Indicates that everyone who needs to be on board is now present.

All present and accounted for

Confirms that all members of a group are present.

Full complement aboard

Indicates that the vehicle or team has its complete crew or members.

Next stop...

Sets the stage for the subsequent destination or activity.

FAQs

What does "All aboard" mean?

"All aboard" is a phrase used to signal that it is time to board a vehicle, such as a train or boat, and prepare for departure.

When is it appropriate to use "All aboard"?

It is appropriate to use "All aboard" when you are ready for people to get on a vehicle before it leaves. It's also used metaphorically to invite participation in a venture or idea.

What can I say instead of "All aboard"?

You can use alternatives like "everyone on board", "time to embark", or "let's get going" depending on the context.

Is "All aboard" formal or informal?

"All aboard" is generally considered informal, but it can be used in a variety of settings depending on the context. More formal alternatives might include "boarding completed" or "ready for departure".