all at once
Definition
Adverb 1. Suddenly; without warning: Refers to an event or action that happens abruptly and unexpectedly. 2. Simultaneously; all together: Refers to multiple things happening or being done at the exact same time.
Usage Examples
Suddenly: The sky was clear, and then all at once, it began to pour with rain. She was quiet for a long time, and then all at once, she began to tell her story.
Simultaneously: The audience rose all at once to give a standing ovation. Please don't answer all at once; raise your hand if you know.
Advanced Usage
- The phrase can sometimes create ambiguity, as its meaning is determined entirely by context. The listener must understand whether it describes a sudden single event or the synchronized action of multiple elements. (This could mean the lights all went out simultaneously, or that the power failed suddenly.)
Variants and Related Words
- All of a sudden: An idiomatic synonym for the "suddenly" meaning.
- At once: Can mean "immediately" or "simultaneously," but is less commonly used for the "suddenly" meaning than "all at once." (Simultaneously) (Immediately)
Synonyms
- Suddenly: Happening quickly and unexpectedly.
- Simultaneously: Happening or done at the same time.
- Abruptly: In a sudden and unexpected way.
Related Idioms
- Out of the blue: Happening completely unexpectedly (similar to the "suddenly" meaning).
- In unison: Acting or speaking at the same time (similar to the "simultaneously" meaning).
Adverb
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without warning
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all at once, he started shouting
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all at the same time
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Let's say `Yes!' all at once
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