without fail

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For certain, as in That check will arrive tomorrow morning without fail. This idiom today is used mainly to strengthen a statement. [Early 1700s]

QUIZ

THINGAMABOB OR THINGUMMY: CAN YOU DISTINGUISH BETWEEN THE US AND UK TERMS IN THIS QUIZ?

Do you know the difference between everyday US and UK terminology? Test yourself with this quiz on words that differ across the Atlantic.

Question 1 of 7

In the UK, COTTON CANDY is more commonly known as…

Words nearby without fail

Every season without fail, I have a handful of football-playing patients who come in with concussions.
Why I’ll Never Let My Kids Play Football|Russell Saunders|May 21, 2014|DAILY BEAST
As a free man, Northup frequently met with slaves, and without fail he counseled them to strike for freedom.
The ‘12 Years a Slave’ Book Shows Slavery As Even More Appalling Than In the Film|Jimmy So|October 18, 2013|DAILY BEAST
Three actually, each occasion without fail receiving raucous hoots and holler from the audience.
‘Saturday Night Live’ Premiere: New Cast Members, Same Boring Show|Kevin Fallon|September 29, 2013|DAILY BEAST
He objectifies every woman without fail, and spares his audience no thought that goes through his head.
This Week’s Hot Reads: February 25, 2013|G. Clay Whittaker|February 25, 2013|DAILY BEAST

Furthermore, the Academy always—without fail—neglects the attention-grabbing comedic performances of the year.
The Daily Beast’s Oscar Nominees: Leonardo DiCaprio, Anne Hathaway & More|Marlow Stern|January 4, 2013|DAILY BEAST
Said he 'ad reason t' believe you was some'ers between Lost River an' the Stone, an' you was t' be captured without fail.
Raw Gold|Bertrand W. Sinclair
In ten minutes more, without fail, the water will be at right heat for your augustness.
The Dragon Painter|Mary McNeil Fenollosa
Dear Sir:—If in your power, be in W—— in two days, without fail.
The Diamond Coterie|Lawrence L. Lynch
I shall do it without fail; and I shall keep you to your promise if you once more put foot in America.
The Pilot|J. Fenimore Cooper
You shall have it back tonight without fail, and I can cut the others that you have been pleased to order from the same pattern.
Fair Margaret|H. Rider Haggard