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all told
01
considering all the parts or items that make up a whole
IdiomWhat is the origin of the idiom "all told" and when to use it?
The idiom "all told" originated from the practice of counting all the relevant elements or factors involved in a situation or calculation. It is derived from the verb "to tell," which in this context means to count or reckon. The phrase is used to indicate that the total or final number or amount is being provided, encompassing everything that is relevant or included in the calculation.
Example
The team scored 5 goals, all told, throughout the tournament, showcasing their offensive prowess.
The trip took us 10 hours, all told, accounting for breaks, traffic, and detours.
The company's profits for the year amounted to $1 million, all told, after accounting for expenses and taxes.
There were 100 guests at the party, all told, when we counted everyone who attended.
His teachers all told me he was excited about riding the bus, feeling like a big boy now.
