all-round thing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "all-round thing" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is versatile or has multiple functions or qualities. Example: "This all-round thing is perfect for both cooking and serving food at parties."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

If you want to be a pro, it's an all-round thing, not just being on your bike".

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

We left without seeing the Good Room, which besides being available for private functions is already hosting talks and literary events, but we'd seen enough to conclude that Bullitt was an all-round very good thing.

The Guardian - Travel

By "all-round" I mean, among other things, that the whole theatre is the stage.

The New Yorker

schools, in slum areas or not, and the reason, according to its principal, Jack August, is that it has become some thing of an all-round comminity entere.

The New Yorker

I think Adele is an all round great thing.

The Guardian - Film

In the article, Johnson wrote of the former first lady: "She represents, on the face of it, everything I came into politics to oppose: not just a general desire to raise taxes and nationalise things, but an all-round purse-lipped political correctness".

The Guardian

Rhythmic - team all-round.

BBC

Rhythmic - individual all-round.

BBC

An all-round brilliant performance".

BBC

Having all these round things in a row when there's clearly room to organize them using the vertical space… not good.

TechCrunch

This year's auction was a curious thing all round, with the franchises less star-struck and more intent on balancing squads.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "all-round thing", ensure the context clearly indicates what aspects are being considered. Specificity enhances clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "all-round thing" when a more precise description is possible. Overusing this phrase can make your writing sound vague and less informative. Instead, consider specifying the qualities that make something 'all-round'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "all-round thing" functions as a descriptor, typically modifying a noun to indicate versatility or general competence. It is used to express that something is capable or useful in many different ways. Ludwig confirms its correctness in English writing.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "all-round thing" is a grammatically correct but relatively uncommon way to describe something that is versatile or broadly useful. According to Ludwig, it's perfectly acceptable in English writing. While it appears primarily in news and media contexts, it is generally considered neutral in register. For more formal settings, using specific descriptors is advisable. Consider alternatives like "versatile asset" or "complete solution" for increased clarity and precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

versatile asset

Emphasizes the adaptability and usefulness in various situations.

comprehensive package

Highlights the inclusion of all necessary components or aspects.

complete solution

Focuses on providing a full answer to a particular problem.

well-rounded approach

Highlights balance and consideration of all relevant areas.

multi-faceted entity

Implies having numerous aspects or dimensions.

holistic entity

Focuses on the interconnectedness and interdependence of its parts.

universal solution

Denotes applicability in a wide range of contexts.

all-inclusive offering

Highlights completeness and lack of additional requirements.

total package

Stresses the entirety and comprehensiveness of what is offered.

generalist approach

Indicates a broad range of skills and knowledge.

FAQs

How can I use "all-round thing" in a sentence?

You can use "all-round thing" to describe something that is versatile or serves multiple purposes well. For example, "This tool is an "all-round thing" because it can be used for cutting, sanding and polishing."

What are some alternatives to "all-round thing"?

Alternatives to "all-round thing" include "versatile asset", "complete solution", or "well-rounded approach", depending on the context.

Is "all-round thing" formal or informal?

"All-round thing" tends to be more informal. In formal contexts, consider using a more specific or technical term.

What does it mean to describe something as an "all-round thing"?

When something is described as an "all-round thing", it generally means that it is useful in a variety of situations or excels in many different areas.