of all people

of all people 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 of all people is also remarkable in this respect.

Meaning of "of all people"

Meaning

The phrase ‘of all people’ is an idiom used to express surprise at a person’s behaviour or actions. The phrase is usually followed by someone’s name, and implies that this person is the last person one would expect to do or say something.

Etymology

The phrase ‘of all people’ has its origins in the Latin phrase ‘omnium gentium’, which translates literally to ‘of all nations’. It was originally used to express surprise at someone’s international origins. It has evolved over time to mean an expression of surprise at any given person’s behaviour.

Usage

The phrase ‘of all people’ is generally used to express disbelief or surprise at the action of someone unexpected. It is typically used when someone has done or said something that is unusual or unexpected, and to express that the person doing or saying this was the last person anyone would expect to do so.

Example Sentences

• “Of all people, I’d never have expected John to be the one who wanted to go skydiving.”
• “Of all people, you’re the last one I’d have expected to win the race.”
• “I was surprised when I heard it was Sally who was being fired – of all people!”

The power of idioms transcends languages!

"Putting the cart before the horse" is an English idiom that means doing things in the wrong order. In Russian, the similar idiom is "Кладёт колесо впереди лошади," which translates to "Putting the cart before the horse." This idiom emphasizes the idea that doing things in the wrong order can lead to confusion and problems down the line.