By all means

Meaning

The idiom "by all means" is used to express approval, encouragement, or consent for something that someone wants to do. It can be used in formal or informal settings and is commonly used in everyday language.

• Literal Meaning "Please do anything you like."
• Figurative Meaning "Go ahead and do whatever you want; I don't mind." The idiom has a history of being used in formal language, particularly in the context of giving consent or approval. It was first recorded in 14th century English literature and has since been used in various forms throughout history.

Usage

• "By all means, you can take the lead on this project." - Used to express approval for someone taking charge of a project.
• "I don't mind if you watch TV by all means." - Used to express consent for someone watching TV.
• "By all means, we can have a picnic in the park." - Used to express approval for having a picnic.
• "If you want to study at home by all means, I won't mind." - Used to express consent for someone studying at home.
• "I don't care if you play video games by all means." - Used to express indifference to someone playing video games. The usage of the idiom can vary depending on the context. It can be used in a friendly or polite manner, but it can also be used in a sarcastic or ironic way. For example: "Sure, I'll give you the benefit of the doubt by all means."

Roots and History

The idiom "by all means" comes from the Middle English phrase "bij alle myn herein" which means "among all my herein" or "through all my heresy". The phrase was used in a religious context to refer to the approval of a doctrine or belief. Over time, the phrase evolved to its current meaning of giving consent or approval.

Synonyms in English

• Be my guest.
• Go ahead.
• Please proceed.
• Of course.
• You're welcome.

Synonyms in other languages

• Spanish - "¿Qué tal?" (meaning "What do you say?")
• French - "Comme tu veux" (meaning "As you wish")
• German - "Komm auf, du bist zu laut!" (meaning "Shut up, you're too loud!")
• Italian - "Perché non?" (meaning "Why not?")
• Russian - "Что же захочешь?" (meaning "What do you want?")

Similar Idioms

• aid and abet

• feet of clay

• take care