At all costs
Example: We must finish the project at all costs by tomorrow.
Definition
"At all costs" means to do whatever is necessary to achieve a goal or complete a task, regardless of difficulties or expenses. It emphasizes an absolute determination to succeed, as in the example: We must finish the project at all costs by tomorrow.
Etymology
The phrase "at all costs" originates from the idea of paying any price or making any sacrifice needed to accomplish something. It dates back to the 16th century, where "cost" referred to expense or loss, and the phrase evolved to signify unwavering commitment to a goal. Did you know it reflects a sense of urgency and total commitment in both everyday and formal language?
Learn to use this expression actively
"At all costs" appears in the Vocaplus list "English - General - Idioms and Proverbs - (C1) - set 1", containing 130 commonly used expressions.
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