The phrase “after all” is a common expression used in everyday language. It is often used to add a sense of finality or conclusion to a statement or to clarify a point that has been previously mentioned. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of the phrase “after all” and its various associations.
Definitions
The phrase “after all” can be defined as an expression used to introduce a statement that emphasizes or clarifies a previous point. It can also be used to indicate that something is surprising or unexpected, despite previous assumptions.
Origin
The origin of the phrase “after all” is not clear, but it has been in use since the 16th century. It is thought to have originated from the Old English phrase “æfter eallum,” which means “after all things.”
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, “after all” is defined as “in spite of considerations or expectations to the contrary.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “in spite of everything; nevertheless.” The Cambridge Dictionary defines it as “despite earlier problems or doubts.”
Associations
The phrase “after all” is often associated with a sense of finality or conclusion. It is also associated with surprise or unexpected outcomes, as it is often used to clarify or emphasize a point that may have been previously overlooked.
Synonyms
Some common synonyms for “after all” include “in the end,” “nevertheless,” “nonetheless,” “despite everything,” and “in spite of everything.”
Antonyms
Some common antonyms for “after all” include “before everything,” “at first,” “initially,” and “originally.”
The same root words
The phrase “after all” does not have any specific root words, but it is made up of two common words that have their own meanings. “After” is a preposition that indicates a time or event that comes later than another, while “all” refers to everything or the entirety of something.
Example Sentences
- “I thought I had lost my keys, but after all, they were in my pocket.”
- “After all the hard work, we finally finished the project.”
- “The weather forecast predicted rain, but after all, it turned out to be a sunny day.”
- “I wasn’t sure if I wanted to go to the party, but after all, I decided to go.”
- “After all the arguments, we finally reached a compromise.”