all-purpose — suitable for many different uses; versatile
Part of speech: ADJECTIVE
Definition: suitable for many different uses; versatile
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈɔːl ˈpɜːrpəs/
Example Sentences
- My grandmother's all-purpose advice for everything was 'eat more kimchi and smile.'
- The all-purpose stadium can host football games, concerts, and even wedding ceremonies.
- He bought an all-purpose jacket that works for hiking, business meetings, and zombie apocalypse survival.
all-purpose
ADJECTIVE[/ˈɔːl ˈpɜːrpəs/]
suitable for many different uses; versatile
Dad uses one all-purpose tool to fix the sink, tighten a chair, and open a jar.
All-purpose tool tackles surplus with purpose!
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
All-purpose emerged as a compound adjective in the early 20th century, combining 'all' (every) and 'purpose' (intended use or function). The term arose during the industrialization era as a linguistic response to the growing demand for efficiency and multi-functional products.
Breakdown
all (every, all kinds of) + purpose (intended use, function). The hyphenated compound functions as an attributive adjective meaning 'suitable or usable for many different purposes or functions.'
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“My grandmother's all-purpose advice for everything was 'eat more kimchi and smile.'”
“The all-purpose stadium can host football games, concerts, and even wedding ceremonies.”
“He bought an all-purpose jacket that works for hiking, business meetings, and zombie apocalypse survival.”
“This all-purpose app combines a calculator, flashlight, and meditation guide.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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