Go All Out – Idiom Of The Day For IELTS: Meaning & Examples

To impress the examiner in the IELTS Speaking test, it's not just about speaking fluently, but also about demonstrating a rich and varied vocabulary. Using idioms naturally and appropriately can significantly boost your Lexical Resource band score. One such powerful and easy-to-use idiom is “Go All Out.”

Meaning of “Go All Out”

Definition:
To put in maximum effort, energy, or resources to achieve something.

Part of Speech: Idiom / Phrasal expression
Usage Level: Informal – Suitable for IELTS Speaking (Band 7+)

Origin and Background of the Idiom: Go All Out

The idiom “go all out” originated in American English, first recorded in the early 20th century. It was commonly used in sports commentary to describe athletes giving their full effort. Over time, it entered everyday language and is now used in both personal and professional contexts.

In modern usage, it implies total commitment, doing everything possible to reach a goal, often in high-pressure or time-sensitive situations like the IELTS exam.

Example Sentences

1. Jack is going all out to win the contract – I hope he succeeds.
2. She went all out to earn the scholarship for her master’s degree.
3. To get a Band 8 in IELTS, I knew I had to go all out with my preparation.
4. The team went all out in the final round of the debate to impress the judges.
5. He goes all out at the gym before competitions.

When to Use “Go All Out” in IELTS Speaking

This idiom is perfect when you're talking about the following in the IELTS Speaking:

• Academic efforts
• Preparation strategies
• Personal goals or success stories
• Work or professional achievements

IELTS Speaking Part 1

Q: Are you a hardworking person?
A: “Yes, especially when it comes to exams or deadlines—I usually go all out to meet my targets.”

IELTS Speaking Part 2

Cue Card: Describe a time you achieved something difficult.
A: “Last year, I went all out to prepare for my IELTS exam. I created a daily study plan, did full-length mock tests, and even joined a speaking group. It was exhausting, but the result made it worth it.”

IELTS Speaking Part 3

Q: Do people today work harder than in the past?
A: “Yes, due to increased competition and expectations, most people have to go all out just to stay ahead—especially students and working professionals.”

Using idioms like “go all out” naturally in your speaking shows fluency, cultural awareness, and expressive range.

Related Idioms for IELTS Speaking

If you found “go all out” useful, check out these similar idioms:

• Pull out all the stops – to use every possible effort
• Give it your all – to put in full energy and dedication
• Leave no stone unturned – to try every possible way
• Burn the midnight oil – to work late into the night
• Go the extra mile – to make an extra effort beyond what is expected

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Literal usage:
Don’t use this idiom when describing physical effort unless it’s about commitment or determination.

2. Incorrect form:
Always say “go all out,” not “go out all” or “go full out.”

3. Using in formal writing:
It’s an informal expression, suitable for spoken IELTS responses, not academic writing.

Sample Answer Using the Idiom in IELTS Speaking Part 2 Cue Card 

Describe a time when you achieved something difficult.
Use the idiom “go all out” in your answer.

You should say:

• When it happened
• What you were trying to achieve
• What you did to succeed
• And how you felt after achieving it

Sample Answer:

Last year, I decided to apply for a fully funded scholarship at an international university. It was extremely competitive, and I knew I had to go all out to even stand a chance. I spent three months preparing my application, perfecting my essays, and practicing mock interviews. I also studied intensively for the IELTS and aimed for a Band 8. After giving my absolute best, I was thrilled to receive the acceptance letter. That experience taught me the value of pushing your limits and committing completely.

This response shows natural idiomatic usage, clarity, and fluency for IELTS Vocabulary.

Overall, using the idiom “go all out” naturally in your IELTS Speaking responses demonstrates determination, vocabulary range, and fluency, qualities that boost your Lexical Resource score. It’s a versatile phrase that can elevate how you express ambition and effort. If you're aiming for top scores, follow the IELTS Exam Preparation Tips for Band Score of 8+ to further enhance your vocabulary and overall test performance.

Also check: 

• 21+ Tips On How to Improve Your IELTS Writing Band Score
• IELTS Exam Preparation Tips for Band Score of 8+
• IELTS Writing Task 1 Connectors
• 10 Useful IELTS Speaking Tips to Impress the Examiner
• Useful Idioms for IELTS Speaking to Score Band 8.0+