for all one is worth: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘for all one is worth’ mean?
The idiom "for all one is worth" means to do something with all of one's ability or effort, often in a desperate or determined manner.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "worth one's while" refers to something that is worthwhile or beneficial for someone to do or experience, often involving a reasonable amount of effort or time.
One commonly used idiom in the English language is "worth one's while." This idiom is used to express the notion of something being worthwhile or valuable in terms of time, effort, or expense.
The idiom "in for a penny, in for a pound" means that once you commit to doing something, you might as well fully commit and go all the way, regardless of the cost or consequences.
The idiom "for the birds" means something is worthless, unimportant, or not serious.
The idiom "for one's particular" means to do something specifically for oneself or to meet one's personal needs or preferences.
The idiom "for one's life" means doing something urgently or desperately to avoid harm, danger, or death.
The idiom "for my money" means in one's opinion or based on personal preference. It is used to indicate that someone believes or prefers something in a particular way, often in contrast with others' opinions.
The idiom "for good and all" means to do something once and for all, or to fully complete or resolve a situation. It implies a final and decisive action, leaving no room for further discussion or uncertainty.
The idiom "for beans" means doing something with very little value or importance. It suggests that the action or result is not worth much, similar to the low value of beans as compared to more valuable substances.
The idiom "for all the world" means in the strongest or most obvious way. It is used to emphasize the certainty or truth of a statement or situation.
Harnessing One's Value
The idiom "for all one is worth" is a commonly used phrase in English. It means to do something with great effort, energy, or enthusiasm. This idiom can be applied to different activities, such as work, sports, or personal endeavors. It signifies a strong determination to give one's best and make the most of a particular opportunity or situation.
For example, someone might say, "He ran for all he was worth to catch the bus," indicating that the person put in their maximum effort to catch the bus. In a figurative sense, it can be used to describe someone giving their maximum effort or involvement in an endeavor that is not necessarily physical. For instance, a person might say, "She cheered for her favorite team for all she was worth," implying that she passionately supported the team and gave all her energy to cheer them on.
The origins of this idiom can be traced back to the 19th century, but it is still in use today. Its meaning is rooted in the conception of worth as value or importance. By giving their all, they are demonstrating their true worth and commitment.
The idiom "for all one is worth" is widely recognized and understood. It is often used in both formal and informal contexts, and its meaning is generally clear from its usage. It is also worth noting that idiomatic expressions like this one contribute to the richness and diversity of the English language.
Another idiom related to "for all one is worth" is "all one's life's worth." This phrase refers to the value or worth that a person places on their own life. It suggests a deep understanding of the importance and significance of one's own existence. When someone does something "for all one's life's worth," they are giving it their utmost effort, recognizing the worth and value of their own life. This idiom further emphasizes the idea of putting in maximum effort and commitment.
Similarly, another related idiom is "worth one's while." This phrase implies that an activity or endeavor is worth the time, effort, or money invested in it. When someone says, "It is worth one's while," they are suggesting that the result or outcome of an action justifies the effort put into it. This idiom aligns with the concept of giving one's all and making the most of an opportunity.
The idiom "for all one is worth," along with the related idioms "all one's life's worth" and "worth one's while," all revolve around the idea of value and effort. They emphasize the importance of dedicating oneself fully to a task or endeavor, recognizing the worth of one's own life, and considering the value of an action. These idioms add depth and nuance to the English language, allowing for the effective expression of determination and enthusiasm.
The idiom "for all one is worth" carries the connotation of exerting maximum effort, energy, or enthusiasm in a given situation. Its origins can be traced back to the 19th century, and it remains in common usage today. The idiom encapsulates the idea that a person's true worth can be measured by their commitment and the effort they put into a particular endeavor. Through its usage, it adds depth and nuance to the English language, allowing for the effective expression of determination and enthusiasm. While its meaning is well-established, the idiom leaves room for interpretation and application in various contexts, making it a versatile and enduring phrase.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom *for all one is worth* can be used in a sentence:
1. He ran for all he was worth to catch the bus.
2. She screamed for all she was worth when she saw the spider.
3. The crowd cheered for all they were worth during the concert.
The idiom "for all one is worth" is used to describe someone giving their maximum effort or doing something to the best of their ability. It often represents a strong and determined effort or reaction to a situation.
More "Effort" idioms
