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

The comedian and “Bob’s Burgers” actor shared an Instagram update Friday to reassure fans he is “doing relatively alright, all things considered.”

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 3, 2026

“I am thankful beyond words to be here and doing relatively alright, all things considered.”

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 3, 2026

"You know they come in waves and you think you're doing alright and then you're hit by another one and you're swamped," she said.

From BBC • Feb. 22, 2026

"It's an indescribable feeling, thank God. What can I say? My two young children didn't recognise me, but thank God. I hope it will be alright", Yusef Abu Fahma, another returnee, told AFP.

From Barron's • Feb. 4, 2026

“It’s alright if you want a change your mind.”

From "The Help" by Kathryn Stockett