one-size-fits-all

American  

[wuhn-sahyz-fits-awl] / ˈwʌnˈsaɪzˌfɪtsˈɔl /

adjective

1. (of clothing) designed to fit people of a wide range of sizes.

2. Informal. acceptable or used for a wide variety of purposes or circumstances; appealing or suitable to a variety of tastes.

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one-size-fits-all British  

adjective

1. relating to policies or approaches that are standard and not tailored to individual needs

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Etymology

Origin of one-size-fits-all

First recorded in 1905–10

Example Sentences

Just as there’s no one-size-fits-all for American women, there ought not be one for the modern American man.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 12, 2026

However, one big caveat is that this strategy isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach, and in momentum-driven markets—like the one that has been dominant in recent years—it’s actually a headwind.

From Barron's • Mar. 26, 2026

“Once AI can analyze your DNA, identify your mutations and generate molecules to target them, the medicine stops being a one-size-fits-all proposition. It becomes custom software for your body.”

From MarketWatch • Mar. 17, 2026

Distributors have countered that a one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t necessarily work for smaller or mid-budget films, which may find a bigger audience via at-home viewing.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 12, 2026

In the bathroom, I slip into my one-size-fits-all dress.

From "Everything, Everything" by Nicola Yoon