# be-all and end-all

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/be-all-and-end-all
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

Something considered to be of the utmost importance; something essential or ultimate.

## Examples

- Winning is not the be-all and end-all of sports.
- Many people think a university degree is the be-all and end-all of success, but practical experience matters too.
- While he initially believed that professional recognition was the be-all and end-all of his existence, he eventually found deeper satisfaction in his quiet, private life.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.