All Best: Definition, Meaning And Origin

Last Updated on
June 14, 2023

The idiom "all best" typically functions as an abbreviated email sign-off, similar to "all the best." This informal, conversational expression wishes someone well in all their endeavors.

In short:

"All best" is a warm, succinct sign-off wishing good luck and positive outcomes.

What Does "All Best" Mean?

"All best" is a casual sign-off used to say goodbye while expressing good wishes and optimism. The two email sign-offs, "All the best" and "All best," are both considered to be polite and friendly, but "all the best" is generally preferred because it is slightly more formal. The extra word "the" adds a touch of warmth and sincerity, while the shorter version can come across as a bit too casual or rushed.

Let's explore its core meanings:

  • It typically functions as an email sign-off or closing remark.
  • It expresses well-wishing, positivity, and hope for the best possible outcomes.
  • While it is frequently used informally, it can also be found in professional communication.

Where Does "All Best" Come From?

The term "all best" is a more recent abbreviation of the longer and more formal phrase "all the best." It has gained popularity with the increase of digital communication, where shorter and more efficient language is often preferred.

10 Examples of "All Best" in Sentences

Here are some examples of using the idiom in sentences:

  • Thanks for letting me know; I will get back to you with the information shortly. All best, John.
  • All best, and I hope to see you at the make-it-or-break-it game next week.
  • Please find attached the documents you requested. All best, Alice.
  • Thank you for your prompt response. All best, Mark.
  • I look forward to your feedback on the proposal. All best, Laura.
  • All best, I can't thank you enough for lending a hand.
  • Thank you for considering my application. All best, Sarah.
  • It was great catching up with you, and I hope to see you again soon. All best, Brian.
  • I hope this message finds you well. All best, Jessica.
  • Thank you for the information. I look forward to our meeting next week. All best, David.

Examples of "All Best" in Pop Culture

While less common than "all the best," which is frequently used in books, movies, and TV, the shortened phrase "all best" occasionally appears in dialogue or correspondence to convey casual optimism and goodwill.

Here are a few examples:

  • A passage from the book "The Cultural Semantics of Address Practices" by Gian Marco Farese: "Dear Mark (if I may), Just a very brief message to apologize for my slowness in replying to your message and to let you know that I'II be in touch with a proper answer in the next few days. All best, Kathryn."
  • "With friends like you- I will be. All Best from a Grateful George Bush" from "All the Best, George Bush: My Life in Letters and Other Writings." This book is a memoir by the 41st President of the United States, George H.W. Bush.

Other/Different Ways to Say "All Best"

There are numerous alternative expressions that convey a similar sentiment to "all best."

Here are some of them:

  • All the best
  • Best
  • Best regards
  • Best wishes
  • Kindest regards
  • Yours sincerely

10 Frequently Asked Questions About "All Best":

  • What does "all best" mean?

"All best" is a shortened form of the phrase "all the best," often used as a sign-off in emails or other written correspondence to wish someone well.

  • How can I use "all best" in a sentence?

You can use "all best" at the end of an email or letter. For example, "Thank you for your prompt response. All best, James."

  • Where does the idiom "all best" come from?

"All best" is a more recent abbreviation of the more formal phrase "all the best", which has become popular with the rise of digital communication.

  • Is "all best" a formal term?

"All best" can be used in both formal and informal settings, depending on the relationship between the sender and the recipient.

  • Is it okay to use it in professional emails?

Yes, "all best" is suitable for professional emails as it provides a concise, friendly sign-off.

  • Is "all best" appropriate for personal communication?

Yes, "all best" can also be used in personal communication to express well-wishing or positivity.

  • Is "all best" commonly used in English-speaking countries?

Yes, "all best" is widely used in English-speaking countries, particularly in email correspondence.

  • Is "all best" considered overly casual or informal?

While "all best" is less formal than "all the best", it is not considered overly casual and can be used in many professional contexts.

  • Can you use it to end a business letter?

While "all best" can be used in a business context, more traditional sign-offs like "yours sincerely" or "best regards" might be more appropriate for formal business letters.

  • What other phrases can you use instead of "all best"?

Alternatives to "all best" include "all the best", "best", "best regards", "best wishes", and "yours sincerely".

Final Thoughts About "All Best"

The idiom "all best" is a concise, warm sign-off used to express well-wishing and positivity. It is a versatile phrase, suitable for use in both formal and informal correspondence.

Here's a quick recap:

  • People use it as an email sign-off or closing remark.
  • It represents hope for the best possible outcomes for the recipient.
  • It is a more recent abbreviation of the more formal expression "all the best."

The phrase "all the best" is more common and widely accepted in English than "all best." It's a concise and warm way to close a message, wishing the recipient all the best things in life. The phrase "all best," although shorter, may seem a bit unusual or less formal to some English speakers.

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