alright

American  

[awl-rahyt] / ɔlˈraɪt /

adverb

1. all right.

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alright British  

/ ɔːlˈraɪt /

adverb

1. a variant spelling of all right

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Spelling

The form alright as a one-word spelling of the phrase all right in all of its senses probably arose by analogy with such words as already and altogether. Although alright is a common spelling in written dialogue and in other types of informal writing, all right is used in more formal, edited writing.

Usage

The form alright, though very common, is still considered by many people to be wrong or less acceptable than all right

Etymology

Origin of alright

First recorded in 1660–70

Explanation

Alright is the informal way of writing "all right." It can stand in for "okay," like the sandwich you had for lunch that was just alright — it was neither great nor terrible. In a nutshell, alright means "fine" or "satisfactory": "Are the kids alright on that Ferris wheel?" You can use it to show that you agree with something someone said: "Oh alright, I get it." This one-word spelling of "all right" is okay when texting with your friends, but don't use it when you are looking to impress, such as in a thank-you letter following a job interview.

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

alright

"It's alright saying you can do this, but sometimes you need the proof. This will achieve that proof and that evidence," she said.

From BBC ● Sep. 30, 2026

How was I holding up and was I feeling alright?

From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 25, 2026

When other passengers asked if she was alright, Levy protested his innocence.

From BBC ● Aug. 7, 2026

"I am praying. Praying that she is alright," she said.

From Barron's ● Jul. 14, 2026

She is stupid alright, but she is my sister.

From "The House on Mango Street" by Sandra Cisneros