at all costs
at all costs — idiom
1. used to say someone is determined to achieve or prevent something, even if doing
used to say someone is determined to achieve or prevent something, even if doing so brings serious trouble, danger, or expense
Christopher kept the village map safe at all costs after the bridge collapsed.
keep something safe at all costs in an emergency
Lucía wanted to avoid another scandal at all costs before the TV debate.
avoid something at all costs before a high-stakes event
The hospital kept oxygen flowing at all costs when the power failed.
Chiara protected her younger brother at all costs when the crowd rushed in.
We must protect the seed bank at all costs before the river floods.
- whatever it takes
more conversational and often sounds more forceful or personal
- no matter what
broader and can describe determination without mentioning sacrifice so directly
- by any means necessary
stronger and can imply accepting morally doubtful methods
文法句型
protect [someone/something] at all costs
avoid [something] at all costs
keep [something] safe at all costs
用法筆記
Often follows verbs such as protect, save, keep, avoid, or prevent. It adds a strong sense of determination and can suggest that someone accepts harm, sacrifice, or public criticism to reach that goal.