at all

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Explanation of "At All"

Definition: The phrase "at all" is an adverb used to emphasize a negative statement. It means "in the slightest degree" or "in any respect." When you use "at all," you are stressing that something is not true, not happening, or not present in any way.

Advanced Usage:

• "At all" can be used in more complex sentences to clarify a point.
  • "He didn’t help me with the project at all, which made it very difficult for me."

Word Variants:

There aren't direct variants of "at all," but you can use it in different contexts with slight variations in wording: - "Not at all" (used for emphasis in negative responses) - "At all times" (means always; different context)

Different Meanings:

• In most cases, "at all" is used in negative contexts, but it can also appear in positive sentences when emphasizing a lack of a limitation:
  • "You can ask me anything at all." (Meaning: You can ask me any question without restrictions.)

Synonyms:

• "In the least"
• "In any way"
• "In any respect"

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

There aren’t specific idioms or phrasal verbs that use "at all," but you might see it paired with other phrases: - "Not in the least" (similar meaning to "not at all")

Summary:

"At all" is a useful phrase in English that helps you express that something is not true or does not exist to any extent.

Academic

Adverb

1. in the slightest degree or in any respect
   • Are you at all interested? No, not at all
   • was not in the least unfriendly

Synonyms

• in the least
• the least bit