AT ONCE Meaning and
Definition
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The phrase "at once" is an adverbial expression that is commonly used to indicate the notion of immediacy, referring to something happening immediately or without any delay. It suggests an urgency or promptness in the action being performed.
When used in various contexts, "at once" conveys the idea of multiple things happening simultaneously or in a synchronized manner. For example, if someone says, "Please come to the office at once," it implies that the person needs immediate presence and attention. Similarly, the phrase is often used to portray quick response or reaction, such as "He laughed and cried at once," indicating that the individual displayed contrasting emotions simultaneously.
Furthermore, "at once" can denote the idea of undertaking an action in a decisive and undivided manner, without any interruption or hesitation. For instance, if someone says, "She started eating and finished her meal at once," it suggests that the person consumed the entire meal without any pauses or interruptions.
Overall, "at once" emphasizes the immediacy, simultaneity, or decisiveness of an action or situation, highlighting the absence of delay, interruption, or hesitation. Whether used in requests, descriptions, or instructions, this phrase underscores the need for promptness and instances occurring without any significant gap or delay.
Common Misspellings for AT ONCE
- atonce
- zt once
- st once
- qt once
- ar once
- af once
- ag once
- ay once
- a6 once
- a5 once
- at ince
- at knce
- at lnce
- at pnce
- at 0nce
- t once
- ta once
- et once
Etymology of AT ONCE
The word at once can be traced back to Old English. The word at comes from the Old English word æt, meaning at or in the direction of. The word once comes from the Old English word anes, meaning once or once upon a time. In combination, at once denotes the notion of simultaneously or immediately.
Idioms with the word AT ONCE
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all at once
The idiom "all at once" means suddenly or unexpectedly, often referring to the occurrence of multiple things simultaneously or simultaneously experiencing or feeling multiple emotions or sensations.
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ride two horses at once
The idiom "ride two horses at once" refers to the act of simultaneously pursuing or being involved in two conflicting or inconsistent activities, roles, or commitments. It implies the challenge of trying to successfully handle or balance two opposing responsibilities or commitments.
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difficult is done at once the impossible takes a little longer
The idiom "difficult is done at once the impossible takes a little longer" means that while challenging tasks can be accomplished with effort and determination, achieving something that seems impossible may require additional time and perseverance. It emphasizes the idea of not giving up in the face of obstacles and highlights the belief that even the most daunting goals can eventually be achieved with patience and persistence.
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One cannot be in two places at once
The idiom "One cannot be in two places at once" means that it is physically impossible for a person to be present or available in two different locations simultaneously. It emphasizes the limitations of human ability to be at multiple places at the same time. It is often used to indicate that a person must make a choice or prioritize between two conflicting commitments or responsibilities.
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at once
At once means immediately, without delay, or all at the same time.
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skin the bear at once
Skin the bear at once is an idiom that means to tackle a difficult or unpleasant task quickly and efficiently without delay.
Similar spelling words for AT ONCE
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