all
This word functions as a universal quantifier, creating a sense of totality and completeness. It is often used to eliminate exceptions, whether referring to a physical mass or a collective group of individuals. In its adverbial form, it adds an emotional or descriptive intensity, often suggesting a state of being overwhelmed or fully saturated by a condition. Grammatically, when used as a determiner with uncountable nouns, it remains singular in construction, but when it refers to a plural count noun, it requires a plural verb. It is distinct from "every" in that "all" focuses on the collective whole, whereas "every" emphasizes the individual members within that whole.
Meanings
Examples
all the cake was eaten before the party started.
all were surprised by the sudden announcement.
The children were all excited for the field trip.
She spent all night studying for the final exam.