by any means
- Adverb:
- Using any possible method or at any cost: This phrase indicates a strong determination to achieve something, regardless of the methods required or the difficulties involved. It emphasizes a lack of restriction on the means used to accomplish a goal.
The phrase "by any means" is used to express an absolute commitment to achieving an objective. It is often employed to convey urgency, necessity, or desperation. - It typically modifies a verb or an entire clause. - It is frequently used in the construction "by any means necessary." - It can stand alone as a short, emphatic answer.
- Adverb:
- We must complete this project on time by any means. (We are absolutely committed to finishing it, using whatever methods are required.)
- "Will you get the funding?" "By any means." (A short answer meaning "Yes, I will get it using any possible method.")
- She was determined to win the competition by any means necessary. (Her determination to win did not limit the actions she was willing to take.)
"by any means necessary": A more emphatic and formal variant, popularized in political and social contexts to signify unwavering resolve.
- The activists vowed to defend their rights by any means necessary.
"not by any means": This is a common idiomatic negation meaning "certainly not" or "not at all." It is used for strong denial or to downplay something.
- He is not by any means a professional singer, but he enjoys it. (He is definitely not a professional.)
- The task is not finished by any means. (The task is far from being finished.)
- By hook or by crook: An idiom with a very similar meaning, implying the use of any method, fair or unfair.
- At all costs: Another phrase emphasizing that something must be achieved regardless of the expense or sacrifice.
- At any cost
- No matter what
- Whatever it takes
- By fair means or foul: An idiom specifically suggesting a willingness to use both honest and dishonest methods.
- By some means or other: A less forceful phrase indicating that a method will be found, though it may not be specified.
It is crucial to distinguish between the affirmative use ("by any means" = using any method) and the negative idiomatic use ("not by any means" = certainly not). The context makes the meaning clear. The phrase often carries a connotation of extremity and can imply that ethical or conventional boundaries might be overlooked.
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in any way necessary
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I'll pass this course by hook or by crook
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