all-purpose

/'ɔ:l'pə:pəs/

Thân thiện

This all-purpose cleaner works on many surfaces.

Definition

Adjective: Not limited to a single specific use or function; suitable for many different purposes or situations.

Usage

The adjective "all-purpose" is used to describe objects, tools, or substances that are designed to be versatile and effective in a wide variety of applications, rather than being specialized for one task. It often implies practicality and general utility.

Examples

• This all-purpose flour is perfect for baking bread, cakes, and cookies.
• She keeps an all-purpose cleaner in the kitchen for wiping counters and appliances.
• He bought an all-purpose knife that can handle chopping, slicing, and dicing.
• The room serves as an all-purpose space for meetings, yoga classes, and social gatherings.

Advanced Usage

• "All-purpose" can sometimes be used in a more figurative sense to describe a person's broad skills or a solution's wide applicability.
  • In a small startup, she became the all-purpose assistant, handling everything from accounting to customer service.
• The term can imply a compromise, suggesting something is adequate for many tasks but may not be the best tool for any single specialized task.

Variants and Related Words

• General-purpose (adjective): Very similar in meaning to "all-purpose," often used in more technical or formal contexts (e.g., general-purpose computer, general-purpose vehicle).
• Multi-purpose (adjective): Essentially synonymous with "all-purpose," emphasizing suitability for multiple distinct purposes.
• Versatile (adjective): A broader term describing something or someone that can adapt or be used in many different ways. ("All-purpose" is a specific type of versatility applied to objects and their functions.)

Synonyms

• Versatile
• General-purpose
• Multi-purpose
• Utility (as in "utility player" or "utility room")
• Jack-of-all-trades (idiomatic, usually for people)

Antonyms

• Specialized
• Single-purpose
• Specific
• Limited-use

Related Phrases and Compounds

• All-purpose flour: A wheat flour with a medium protein content, suitable for most baking needs.
• All-purpose room: A space designed to accommodate various activities.
• All-purpose cleaner: A liquid or spray cleaning agent formulated for use on multiple surfaces.

Học thuật

Adjective

1. not limited in use or function

Từ đồng nghĩa

• general-purpose