Is there a short phrase for something "none or all"? (see details)
Like, if something has this particular part, all its functions work and everything is perfect; if something does not have this particular part, nothing on it works.

I remember there should be a shorter phrase for that, like "it's either none or all blahblah"...?

Question

Is there a short phrase for something "none or all"? (see details)
Like, if something has this particular part, all its functions work and everything is perfect; if something does not have this particular part, nothing on it works.

I remember there should be a shorter phrase for that, like "it's either none or all blahblah"...?

Answer

"It is all or nothing."

Answer

Thanks DavidK, I think it is okay to use "all or nothing" in my case. I found this webpage https://dictionary.cambridge.org/us/dictionary/english/all-or-nothing that describes a similar situation: "The government has rejected the all-or-nothing approach in favour of a compromise solution." Maybe I didn't make my question quite clear, but I think I am okay with this answer.

Also, great to know the story of "a Swiss watch"! :)

Answer

I have never heard the phrase “all or nothing” used that way. I’ve heard it as a way to describe a commitment level. If you aren’t going try your hardest, then don’t bother trying at all.

As far as the answer to your question, I can’t think of a good one. I grew up with the idea of “a Swiss watch” being the perfectly efficient machine with every part having a purpose. But I’m not sure how widespread that was, and I’d guess it must be obsolete now.

Answers · 4

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