The English language is full of idioms and phrases that can be confusing to non-native speakers. One such phrase is “by all odds.” This phrase is commonly used in English, but its meaning is not always clear. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of “by all odds.”
Definitions
The phrase “by all odds” is an idiom that means “without a doubt” or “certainly.” It is used to emphasize that something is very likely to happen or be true.
Origin
The origin of this phrase is not clear, but it is believed to have originated in the United States in the late 19th century. It is thought to have been derived from the gambling world, where odds are used to determine the likelihood of a particular outcome.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, “by all odds” means “without question” or “certainly.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “unquestionably” or “without a doubt.”
Associations
The phrase “by all odds” is often associated with gambling, where odds are used to determine the likelihood of a particular outcome. It is also commonly used in sports to describe a team or player who is expected to win a game or competition.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for “by all odds” include “without question,” “certainly,” “undoubtedly,” and “unquestionably.”
Antonyms
Antonyms for “by all odds” include “doubtfully,” “uncertainly,” and “questionably.”
The same root words
The phrase “by all odds” does not have any root words, as it is an idiom.
Example Sentences
- By all odds, he is the best player on the team.
- She is, by all odds, the most qualified candidate for the job.
- The favorite team is, by all odds, going to win the championship.
- By all odds, this is the best restaurant in town.
- The movie is, by all odds, the best one of the year.
In conclusion, the phrase “by all odds” is an idiomatic expression that means “without a doubt” or “certainly.” It is often used to emphasize that something is very likely to happen or be true. Although its origin is not clear, it is believed to have originated in the United States in the late 19th century and is often associated with gambling and sports.