What does “All-nighter” mean?
The phrase "All-nighter" means 'Staying up all night to do a task or activity, usually related to work or studying.' When someone pulls an "All-nighter", they are staying awake for the entire night in order to complete a specific task or activity, often because of time constraints or a deadline. It is commonly used among students who are cramming for exams or trying to finish assignments at the last minute.
How is the expression used in real life?
Example
A: I have a big exam tomorrow, so I'm pulling an all-nighter to study.
Example
A: The deadline for this project is tomorrow, so I'll be pulling an all-nighter to finish it.
Example
A: We're having a gaming marathon tonight. It's going to be an all-nighter!
What context can I use each expression in?
- 1Studying or preparing for exams
I have a big exam tomorrow, so I'm pulling an all-nighter to study.
I need to finish this essay tonight, so it's going to be an all-nighter.
- 2Meeting work or project deadlines
The deadline for this project is tomorrow, so I'll be pulling an all-nighter to finish it.
We have a presentation tomorrow, so we'll have to work through the night. It's going to be an all-nighter.
- 3Engaging in activities that last all night
We're having a gaming marathon tonight. It's going to be an all-nighter!
The concert is tonight and it's going to be an all-nighter of non-stop music.
Good things to know:
What is the origin of the phrase?
The phrase "all-nighter" originated in the United States and is widely used in American English. It gained popularity in the context of work or studying, where individuals would stay up all night to complete a task or prepare for an exam.
Can the phrase be used on its own?
The phrase "all-nighter" is typically used within a sentence to describe the act of staying up all night. It is not commonly used on its own without supporting words.
Is the phrase offensive?
The phrase "all-nighter" is not offensive. It is a commonly used slang term to describe staying up all night to do a task or activity.
Audience for the phrase
The phrase "all-nighter" is commonly used by students, professionals, and individuals who have demanding work or study schedules. It is understood by English speakers familiar with modern slang and the concept of staying up all night for a task or activity.
Is the phrase specific to an accent or country?
The phrase "all-nighter" is primarily used in the United States, but it is also understood in other English-speaking regions. It may vary in popularity and usage in different countries or regions, but the concept of staying up all night for work or studying is universal.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- pulling an all-nighter
- staying up all night
- working through the night
- burning the midnight oil
- working late
Antonyms
- resting
- getting enough sleep
- taking a break
- getting a good night's sleep
- not staying up all night
