anything goes: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘anything goes’ mean?
The idiom "anything goes" means that there are no limits or restrictions on what is acceptable or allowed in a particular situation. It implies a wide range of possibilities and a lack of rules or standards.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "you name it" means that there is a wide range of options or choices available, with no specific limit or restriction. It suggests that whatever someone can think of or mention, it is included in the possibilities being discussed.
The idiom "everything but the kitchen sink" means including almost everything, often used to express an excessive or overwhelming amount of things or information.
The idiom "everything and the kitchen sink" means including every possible thing or item, often used to describe a situation or a collection that is excessive or overloaded.
The idiom "cut loose" means to let go of inhibitions or restraints, and behave or act freely without any restrictions or limitations.
The idiom "come what may" means to face or accept whatever may happen or come, without worrying or fearing the outcome. It implies a determination to confront challenges or difficulties with courage and perseverance.
The idiom "by any means" means to accomplish something using any possible method or strategy, regardless of how extreme or unconventional it may be.
The idiom "be my guest" means to give permission or allow someone to do something. It is often used in a sarcastic or ironic way to show that one is willing to let someone do as they please.
The idiom "beggars can't be choosers" means that when in a desperate situation, one cannot have high expectations or be selective about what is given or offered.
The idiom "anyone's guess" means that something is uncertain or unknown, and different people have different opinions or guesses about it.
The idiom "any old thing" means something that is not specific or special, but just any random or ordinary thing.
Unpredictable Boundaries
The idiom "anything goes" is believed to have originated in the early 1900s, possibly from a nautical or military context.
This idiom carries the meaning that there are no rules or limitations, and that all actions or behaviors are acceptable or permissible in a particular situation.
One of the most notable instances of the phrase gaining significant popularity was when it was used as the title of a successful Broadway musical in 1934, written by Cole Porter. This musical depicted a storyline in which various characters abandoned societal conventions and embraced a more liberal outlook on life.
When we say "anything goes" in a colloquial sense, we are describing a situation where there is a lack of restrictions, inhibitions, or standards. It is a way to express a sense of freedom or a willingness to accept unconventional or non-traditional ideas or behaviors.
This idiom has also made its mark in pop culture. It has been used as song titles, album names, and movie dialogue.
However, it is crucial to note that the idiom is not applicable in all circumstances. There are still societal norms, laws, and ethical considerations that dictate what is acceptable in different contexts.
The phrase "anything goes" captures the concept of unrestricted freedom and a disregard for conventional rules or limitations. Its association with the Broadway musical of the same name brought it into the spotlight. In colloquial usage, it signifies situations where there are no restrictions or inhibitions. It is important to recognize though that societal norms and ethical considerations set boundaries even in these situations. The idiom has left its mark on pop culture through various appearances in songs, albums, and movies.
When thinking about the related idioms to "anything goes," we can explore their meanings and connections.
If we look at the expression "you name it," it is often used to suggest that there are a vast number of options or possibilities available. It conveys a sense of inclusivity and openness, similar to the idea conveyed by "anything goes." This phrase implies that there are no limits or restrictions on what can be named or considered.
The idiom "any old thing" is used to describe something that is not particularly specific or significant. It implies a lack of discernment or selectiveness. In the context of "anything goes," it relates to the idea that there are no specific requirements or standards for what is acceptable or permissible.
The phrase "cut loose" is often used to mean liberating oneself from constraints, inhibitions, or restrictions. In the context of "anything goes," it implies a willingness to abandon conventional rules and embrace a more carefree or relaxed approach to life or a particular situation.
"Come what may" signifies a readiness to accept whatever may happen or transpire. It reflects a willingness to be open-minded and adaptable, similar to the attitude conveyed by "anything goes." This related idiom suggests that the individual is prepared to face the unknown or the unpredictable without resistance or hesitation.
The expression "anyone's guess" is used to convey that something is uncertain or unknown. This related idiom aligns with the idea of "anything goes" in the sense that it implies a lack of predetermined outcome or limitations. It suggests that the possibilities are wide open and cannot be accurately predicted.
To summarize, the idiom "anything goes" originated in the early 1900s and has since been associated with the Broadway musical of the same name. It signifies a lack of rules or limitations, allowing for all actions or behaviors to be acceptable in a given situation. While it is often used in a colloquial sense to describe situations of freedom and open-mindedness, it is important to recognize that there are still boundaries determined by societal norms and ethical considerations. Related idioms like "you name it," "any old thing," "cut loose," "come what may," and "anyone's guess" share similar themes of openness, lack of restrictions, and acceptance of the unknown.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "anything goes" can be used in a sentence:
- At the costume party, the dress code was "anything goes," so people arrived in a wide variety of outfits.
- In this creative writing class, the teacher encourages students to freely express their ideas and use unconventional techniques - basically, "anything goes."
- In the fashion industry, sometimes designers push boundaries and create bold styles where "anything goes" in terms of experimenting with materials and silhouettes.
The idiom "anything goes" indicates a state or situation where there are no rules, restrictions, or limitations. It implies a lenient or permissive atmosphere where individuals are free to act, dress, or express themselves without any set boundaries. It can be used to describe situations that encourage creative freedom, open-mindedness, and a lack of regulations or norms.
More "Informal" idioms
