By all means
Example: If you want to join the team, by all means, come along.
Definition
"By all means" is an expression used to give permission or encourage someone to do something without hesitation. It implies a strong affirmation or agreement, as in the phrase, 'If you want to join the team, by all means, come along,' meaning you are warmly invited or allowed to participate.
Etymology
The phrase "by all means" originates from the combination of 'by,' indicating manner or method, and 'all means,' referring to all possible ways or methods. It dates back to the 16th century, used to emphasize the certainty or wholehearted approval of an action. Did you know? It has been a polite way to grant permission for centuries, showing enthusiastic consent.
Learn to use this expression actively
"By all means" appears in the Vocaplus list "English - General - Idioms and Proverbs - (B2) - set 1", containing 103 commonly used expressions.
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