all out

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "all out" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that something is completely exhausted or that someone is giving their maximum effort in a situation. Example: "After the intense workout, I felt completely all out and needed to rest."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

"I throw them all out".

The New York Times

He goes all out".

The New York Times - Sports

Have fun! Go all out!

WikiHow

"Get them all out".

The New York Times

(Kick them all out!).

The Economist

"All out," says one.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

"I was all-out.

Independent

Rex goes all-out blitz.

The New York Times - Magazine

"It's all-out war.

Forbes

The All-Out Nerd.

WikiHow

Don't all-out bound, though.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "all out" to describe effort, ensure the context clearly indicates the subject is expending maximum energy or resources. For example: "The team went "all out" in the final quarter to secure the victory."

Common error

Avoid using "all out" when the situation only requires substantial but not necessarily maximum effort. Using "significant effort" or "considerable resources" may be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "all out" primarily functions as an adjective or adverb, modifying a noun or verb to indicate a state of complete exhaustion or maximum effort. Ludwig confirms its usability in written English. Examples show it describing physical exertion and resource depletion.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Wiki

30%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "all out" is a versatile expression primarily functioning as an adjective or adverb to convey maximum effort, complete exhaustion, or a comprehensive approach. Ludwig confirms that the phrase is correct and usable in written English. It is commonly found in news and media, as well as general writing contexts like wikis, with less frequent use in formal academic or business settings. To avoid misinterpretations, ensure the context is clear and the degree of effort or depletion is appropriately conveyed. Alternatives such as "with maximum effort" or "completely exhausted" can offer nuanced variations. Remember that "all-out" functions more often as a compound adjective modifying nouns.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

with maximum effort

Focuses on the intensity of the effort exerted.

completely exhausted

Highlights the state of being fully depleted of energy.

giving it your all

Emphasizes dedication and full commitment.

going full throttle

Implies operating at maximum speed or intensity.

without reservation

Underscores a lack of hesitation or limitation.

in full force

Indicates the exertion of complete power or resources.

flat out

Emphasizes speed and lack of restraint.

to the max

Highlights maximizing a specific aspect or characteristic.

with every ounce of effort

Emphasizes putting all available effort into something.

at full tilt

Indicates operating at the highest level or capacity.

FAQs

How can I use "all out" in a sentence?

You can use "all out" to describe giving maximum effort, as in "The runner went "all out" in the final sprint". It can also describe something being completely exhausted, such as "We're "all out" of coffee".

What does it mean to go "all out"?

To go "all out" means to give something your maximum effort, spare no expense, or hold nothing back. It implies a total commitment of resources or energy to achieve a specific goal.

Which is correct, "all out" or "all-out"?

Both "all out" and "all-out" are correct, but they have slightly different usages. "All out" is typically used as an adverb or adjective, while "all-out" is often used as a compound adjective before a noun, such as "an "all-out effort"".

What are some synonyms for giving something "all out"?

Instead of saying "all out", you can use alternatives like "with maximum effort", "giving it your all", or "going full throttle", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.