“All the” is a common phrase used in the English language. It is a combination of the word “all” and the definite article “the.” This phrase is used to describe the entirety of something or to refer to a group of people or things. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of “all the,” its origin, associations, synonyms, antonyms, and provide example sentences.
Definitions
The phrase “all the” is used to refer to the entire amount or quantity of something. It can also be used to refer to a specific group of people or things. For example, “all the students in the class” refers to every student in the class, while “all the books on the shelf” refers to every book on the shelf.
Origin
The phrase “all the” has been in use in the English language for centuries. The word “all” comes from the Old English word “eall,” which means “entirely.” The definite article “the” comes from the Old English word “þē,” which means “the.” The combination of these two words has been used in English since the Middle Ages.
Meaning in different dictionaries
The phrase “all the” is not typically listed as a separate entry in dictionaries. However, the individual words “all” and “the” are defined as follows:
- All: the whole quantity or extent of something.
- The: used to specify one or more people or things already mentioned or assumed to be common knowledge.
Associations
The phrase “all the” is often associated with completeness or totality. It can also be used to emphasize the importance or significance of something. For example, “all the money in the world” emphasizes the vast amount of money available.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for “all the” include:
- Every.
- Entire.
- Complete.
- Whole.
- Total.
Antonyms
Some antonyms for “all the” include:
- Part.
- Incomplete.
- Partial.
- Fractional.
The same root words
The words “all” and “the” have different origins and root words. “All” comes from the Old English word “eall,” while “the” comes from the Old English word “þē.” However, both words are commonly used in the English language and have been for centuries.
Example Sentences
- All the students in the class passed the exam.
- I want all the chocolate in the box.
- She read all the books in the library.
- All the people at the party were having a good time.
- He spent all the money in his bank account.