as in cause
the most important part of something or the reason for something
He acts as if making money is the be-all and end-all of human existence.
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Recent Examples of be-all and end-all
Don’t let one path be your be-all and end-all.
—
Ashton Jackson,
CNBC,
14 Apr. 2026
See All Example Sentences for be-all and end-all
Ashton Jackson,
CNBC,
14 Apr. 2026
See All Example Sentences for be-all and end-all
Recent Examples of Synonyms for be-all and end-all
Noun
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The ruling did not address whether there was enough cause to remove Cook, based on the fraud allegations brought forth by the administration.
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Exertional heat stroke requires immediate medical attention and is the third leading cause of death in athletes.
Noun
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Paine rightly saw that a critical determinant for the success of our new nation and the vitality of its democracy was sustained, active citizen participation in political and social affairs.
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Both parameters were identified as the most important determinants of the fill factor at low voltage losses.
Cite this Entry
“Be-all and end-all.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/be-all%20and%20end-all. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.
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