At All Costs – Idiom of the Day for IELTS Speaking

When preparing for the IELTS Speaking test, using idiomatic expressions naturally and correctly can boost your Lexical Resource score. Today’s idiom, “At all costs,” is especially useful when you want to express determination and persistence, even when facing difficulties or sacrifices.

Meaning of At All Costs

• Definition: To do something “at all costs” means to be determined to achieve it, regardless of the expense, difficulty, or risk involved.
• Example: The journalist was determined at all costs to get a report from the war zone.
• This idiom is often used to describe people who are highly committed to achieving their goals, no matter what challenges they encounter.

Origin of the Idiom “At All Costs”

The phrase originates from the idea of being willing to “pay any cost” whether in money, effort, or sacrifice, to accomplish something. Over time, it has evolved into a common idiom expressing strong determination and perseverance in personal, academic, or professional contexts.

Usage of At All Costs in Context

Here are some example sentences showing how the idiom is used in the IELTS Speaking: 

• “I was determined at all costs to complete my master’s degree abroad.”
• “Athletes train hard and avoid distractions at all costs to reach the top.”
• “In my opinion, honesty should be maintained at all costs, even if it’s difficult.”

Pro Tip: Use this idiom naturally when describing your goals, challenges, or determination in IELTS Speaking Parts 2 or 3. Avoid overusing it or forcing it into unrelated contexts.

When to Use the Idiom “At All Costs”

You can use this idiom in IELTS Speaking Part 1, Part 2, or IELTS Speaking Part 3 when:

• Ambitions or dreams: “I wanted to study overseas at all costs.”
• Hard work and effort: “He prepared for the IELTS exam at all costs.”
• Strong beliefs or values: “She protects her family’s privacy at all costs.”

Idiom Scenarios

Scenario 1:
Sara: Are you still planning to start your own business?
Tom: Yes, I’m determined to make it happen at all costs.

Scenario 2:
Examiner (Part 3): Do you think success requires sacrifices?
Candidate: Absolutely. People who are passionate about their goals often pursue them at all costs, even if it means giving up comfort or leisure.

Speaking Part 2 Sample Answer Using “At All Costs”

IELTS Speaking Part 2 – Describe a time when you achieved something difficult

Sample Answer:
One of the most challenging goals I set for myself was to pass the IELTS exam with a band 8. I worked tirelessly, studying every evening after work and practicing mock tests during weekends. I was determined to reach my target score at all costs because studying abroad had always been my dream. Although it was exhausting, the effort paid off when I finally received my desired score.

IELTS Vocabulary Tip for “At All Costs”

Using idioms like at all costs makes your speech sound more natural and confident. It’s a great expression to show your determination, motivation, and goal-oriented mindset qualities that fit well in many IELTS Speaking topics like education, success, or personal growth.

Exercise 1: At All Costs 

A. Match the idioms in Column A with their meanings in Column B

Exercise: Fill in the Blanks with “At All Costs”

Complete the following sentences using the idiom “at all costs.”

1. She was determined to become a doctor __________, even if it meant studying all night.
Answer: at all costs

2. We must protect the environment __________ to ensure a safe future for our children.
Answer: at all costs

3. He wanted to win the debate competition __________, so he practiced his speech every day.
Answer: at all costs

4. The company aims to maintain customer trust __________, even during tough times.
Answer: at all costs

5. I’ll achieve my dream of studying abroad __________; nothing will stop me.
Answer: at all costs

To sum up, the idiom “at all costs” is a powerful expression to demonstrate determination and persistence in your IELTS Speaking responses. Whether you’re discussing goals, challenges, or achievements, using this idiom naturally can enhance your fluency and help you sound more confident and goal-driven. 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+