all along

all along is an idiom used by many writers. When idioms are used in the right place, they open the doors of effective communication and increase your descriptive power. In this way, you will be better understood. The meaning of the expression all along is also remarkable in this respect.

Meaning of "all along"

Meaning

The idiom “all along” is used to refer to something that has been true or taking place from the beginning of a situation until now. It implies that this was hidden or not known until now and is often used in situations that come as a surprise or when something has been revealed.

Etymology

While the exact origins of the idiom “all along” are unknown, it is thought to be derived from the Middle English phrase “al-long”. This phrase was used to describe something that was “long” in duration, or that it extended all the way through or along a certain path. Over time, this phrase took on the meaning of “for a long time” or “all the time” and eventually evolved into the phrase “all along”.

Usage

The phrase “all along” is usually used informally in everyday conversations, often to show surprise or dismay at a situation. For example, someone might say “I had no idea she was lying all along” to express their surprise and disappointment that someone was not telling the truth for a period of time. It can also be used to show disbelief or incredulity, as in “I had no idea that was true all along”.

Example Sentences

• I can’t believe she was lying to us all along.
• I was shocked to find out that the story I was told all along was false.
• It turns out that it was true all along.
• He had been planning to go to college all along.
• She had been hiding the truth all along.

Idioms have a common language

"The early bird catches the worm" is an English idiom that means that those who wake up early and start their day early are more likely to succeed. A similar idiom in Spanish is "El que madruga, Dios le ayuda," which translates to "God helps those who rise early." This idiom emphasizes the importance of starting the day early in order to achieve success.