Pull out all the stops

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Meaning

To go all out with maximum effort or flair, holding nothing back.

Origin

From 19th-century Britain, tied to pipe organs; 'stops' controlled pipes, all out meant thunder, slang by 1860s for effort. An 1889 'Times' uses it for a lavish bash.

Variants

  • Pull the stops

Usage Examples

  • They pulled out all the stops for the wedding-amazing!
  • He pulled out all the stops to win her back.
  • Pull out all the stops; this pitch has to dazzle.

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