The French phrase “à outrance” is often used in English to describe something that is done to an extreme or excessive degree. It is a term that can be applied to a wide range of situations, from personal behavior to political or military actions. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of “à outrance,” its origin, and its use in different contexts.
Definitions
The literal translation of “à outrance” is “to excess” or “to the extreme.” It is a phrase that is commonly used in French, and it has been adopted into English as well. The term can be used to describe any action or behavior that is taken to an extreme degree, whether it is positive or negative.
Origin
The phrase “à outrance” has its roots in medieval French, where it was used to describe the practice of jousting. In this context, it referred to the practice of continuing a joust until one of the participants was unhorsed or injured. Over time, the term came to be used more broadly to describe any action or behavior that was taken to an extreme degree.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, “à outrance” means “to the utmost extreme; without restraint or limit.” Merriam-Webster defines it as “to the point of excess or exhaustion; without restraint or moderation.”
Associations
The phrase “à outrance” is often associated with military or political actions that are taken to an extreme degree. It can also be used to describe personal behavior that is excessive or extreme, such as drinking or gambling.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for “à outrance” include excessively, extremely, intensely, and without restraint.
Antonyms
Antonyms for “à outrance” include moderately, sparingly, and conservatively.
The same root words
The root words of “à outrance” are “à” and “outrance.” “À” is a preposition that means “to” or “at,” while “outrance” means “extreme” or “excess.” Other words that share the same root as “outrance” include “outrageous” and “outright.”
Example Sentences
Here are some examples of how “à outrance” can be used in a sentence:
- The two armies fought à outrance, with neither side willing to give ground.
- He drank à outrance, and soon found himself unable to stand.
- The politician’s rhetoric was filled with à outrance statements, designed to inflame his supporters.
- The company’s CEO worked à outrance to ensure that the project was completed on time.
- The musician played the guitar à outrance, pouring all of his emotion into the performance.