Definition

Adverb: To the same degree or extent; completely, wholly. Often used in the comparative structure "every bit as [adjective/adverb] as" to emphasize that two things are equal in a specific quality.

Usage

The phrase "every bit" is used to assert that something possesses a quality to the full, undiminished extent, making it entirely comparable to something else. It functions as an intensifier within a comparative structure.

Examples

• He is every bit as talented as the lead singer.
• This homemade cake is every bit as good as the one from the bakery.
• She performed every bit as well as we had hoped.
• The sequel is every bit the masterpiece the original film was.

Advanced Usage

• "every bit the [noun]": This structure is used to assert that someone or something fully embodies a particular role or quality, often one that is impressive or notable.
  • Despite his youth, he was every bit the leader the team needed.
  • The small café was every bit the cozy retreat she had imagined.

Variants and Related Words

• Equally (adv): To an equal degree or extent. ()
• Just as (adv): Exactly or equally. ()
• Fully (adv): Completely or entirely. ()

Synonyms

• Just as
• Equally
• Fully
• Entirely
• Wholly

Related Phrases

• Every bit as...as: The standard comparative construction for emphasizing equality.
  • The digital copy is every bit as clear as the original print.
• Every bit of: (Note: This is a different, though related, phrase meaning "all of" or "the entire amount of," used with nouns.)
  • He gave every bit of his energy to the project. (This means "all of his energy.")

Adverb

1. to the same degree (often followed by `as')
   • they were equally beautiful
   • birds were singing and the child sang as sweetly
   • sang as sweetly as a nightingale
   • he is every bit as mean as she is