1
general::
1. Completely correct, as in You have a perfect score? your answers are all right. (It could just as well be put as "all your answers are right.") 2. In proper or working order, in a satisfactory way, as in The engine is running all right now. [Late 1800s] Also see TURN OUT ALL RIGHT. 3. In good health, as in John had the flu, but he's all right now. [Early 1900s] 4. Not injured, safe, as in It was just a minor accident and everyone is all right. [Early 1900s] 5. Very well, yes, as in Do you want to leave now?? All right, or All right, we'll stay home. [First half of 1800s] Also see ALL RIGHT WITH YOU. 6. Certainly, without a doubt, as in It's late all right, but it will probably come today. [Mid-1800s] 7. Hurrah! Good for you, as in All right! your team has done it again! [Slang; mid-1900s] 8. Also, all-right. Good, satisfactory. For example, This restaurant is all right, or Harry is an all-right guy. [Slang; mid-1900s]
American Heritage Idioms
2
general::
Phrase(s): all right
1. an indication of agreement or acquiescence. (Often pronounced aright in familiar conversation.) • Father: Do it now, before you forget. Bill: All right. • Tom: Please remember to bring me back a pizza. Sally: All right, but I get some of it. 2. Inf. a shout of agreement or encouragement. (Usually All right!) • Alice: Come on, let’s give Sally some encouragement. Fred: All right, Sally! Keep it up! You can do it! • "That’s the way to go! All right!" shouted various members of the audience. 3. well, good, or okay, but not excellent. (This phrase has all the uses that okay has.) • I was a little sick, but now I’m all right. • His work is all right, but nothing to brag about. • All right, it’s time to go. 4. beyond a doubt; as the evidence shows. • The dog’s dead all right. It hasn’t moved at all. • The train’s late all right. There must be a problem up the line.
McGrawhill's American Idioms And Phrasal Verbs