all the rage: Idiom Meaning and Origin

What does ‘all the rage’ mean?

The idiom "all the rage" means something is currently very popular or fashionable, capturing widespread attention and admiration.

Idiom Explorer

The Enigmatic Craze

The idiom "all the rage" is a commonly used phrase in the English language. It is often used to describe something that is currently popular or fashionable within a particular society or group.

One of the earliest recorded uses of the phrase "all the rage" can be found in a letter written by Jane Austen in 1801. She refers to a fashionable style of dress as being "all the rage," demonstrating that the idiom was already in use during that time period and was associated with being fashionable or in vogue.

The word "rage" in this idiom does not refer to anger or violence, but rather signifies a form of intense enthusiasm or passion that people have towards a particular trend or fashion. The word "all" emphasizes the widespread popularity or acceptance of the trend within a given context.

The meaning and usage of the idiom "all the rage" have remained relatively consistent throughout history. It is often used in a positive sense to describe a trend, style, or cultural phenomenon that is currently very popular or in demand. The idiom implies that the trend is not only popular with a select few, but has gained widespread appeal and acceptance within a larger population.

The popular fashion trends are changing frequently.

This idiom is commonly used in various contexts, including fashion, music, technology, and entertainment. For example, one might say that a particular fashion style is "all the rage" among young people, indicating that it has become very popular and fashionable among that demographic. Similarly, a new smartphone model might be described as "all the rage" if it is highly sought after and in high demand.

The idiom "all the rage" is a widely used expression to describe something that is currently popular or fashionable within a specific society or group. Its meaning has remained consistent over time and is often associated with trends, styles, or cultural phenomena.

Additionally, there are other idioms that are related to the idiom "all the rage," such as "catch fire" and "boiling hot." These idioms also suggest a sense of popularity and intensity. When something "catches fire," it means that it quickly becomes popular or widely adopted. It spreads rapidly, much like a fire that engulfs everything in its path. Similarly, when something is described as "boiling hot," it implies that it is currently very popular and in high demand. The phrase conjures images of boiling water, which signifies intensity and fervor.

The idioms "catch fire" and "boiling hot" are related to the idiom "all the rage" in that they all convey a sense of popularity and intensity. They emphasize the widespread appeal and enthusiasm that a trend, style, or cultural phenomenon can generate. These idioms highlight the dynamic nature of language and societal trends, as they reflect the ever-evolving ways in which we express ourselves and describe the world around us.

As the English language continues to evolve, it is intriguing to contemplate how the meaning and usage of idioms like "all the rage," "catch fire," and "boiling hot" may continue to adapt and expand. These idioms serve as a reflection of our society's values, preferences, and the ever-changing landscape of popular culture.

Example usage

Examples of how the idiom "all the rage" can be used in a sentence:

  1. That new restaurant in town is all the rage right now.
  2. I got my younger sister the latest video game console because it's all the rage among kids her age.
  3. Animal prints are all the rage in fashion this season.

The idiom "all the rage" is used to describe something that is currently very popular or fashionable. It is often used to refer to trends, styles, or activities that are highly sought after and widely enjoyed by a particular group or the general public.

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