for all the world
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In all respects, precisely, as in She looked for all the world like Greta Garbo. [Late 1300s]
Also, not for the world. Not for anything, not at any price. For example, I wouldn't give up chocolate for all the world, or Not for the world would I reveal your secret. This hyperbolic expression is generally part of a negative statement. [First half of 1800s] For a synonym, see not for love or money.
QUIZZES
THINK YOU’VE GOT A HANDLE ON THIS US STATE NICKNAME QUIZ?
Did you ever collect all those state quarters? Put them to good use on this quiz about curious state monikers and the facts around them.
Question 1 of 8
Mississippi’s nickname comes from the magnificent trees that grow there. What is it?
Words nearby for all the world
Foraker, for all, for all intents and purposes, for all one is worth, for all that, for all the world, for a loop, foram, foramen, foramen cecum medullae oblongatae, foramen magnum
The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary
Copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.