The idiom “at all” is an adverb that indicates a complete lack of something. It is usually used as a part of another phrase such as “not at all” or “not even close”, and can also be used as an emphatic way of saying “no”. The origin of the phrase is uncertain, but one theory is that it comes from the Old English phrase “at eall”, which was used to deny the existence of something.
In the context of modern English, the phrase “at all” is used to indicate a complete absence of something, or to emphasize a negative answer. For example, one might say “I don’t care at all” to illustrate their lack of interest in the topic or situation. The phrase can also be used to express disbelief, such as “I can’t believe it’s true at all”.
The idiom “at all” is also sometimes used as a form of emphatic rejection. For example, someone might say “No, not at all” to indicate that they strongly disagree with an idea or suggestion. This usage of the phrase can also be used in the affirmative, as in “Yes, absolutely at all”.
The phrase “at all” is a versatile and common idiom used in everyday English. It is an adverb that is used to emphasize a negative response, to express disbelief, or to indicate a complete absence of something. It is believed to have originated from the Old English phrase “at eall”, though its exact etymology is unknown.
Take a look at these examples:
- I don’t care about him at all.
- I can’t imagine him doing something like that at all.
- I’m not interested in the idea at all.
- He didn’t even come close to achieving his goal at all.
- I can’t believe it’s true at all.
- He didn’t pay attention to the details at all.
- No, I’m not interested in the job at all.
- I’m not willing to help her at all.
- She didn’t understand the concept at all.
- Yes, absolutely at all.