All present and correct

Definitions

• confirmation of accuracy
  To indicate that everything or everyone is in the correct place or accounted for, without any errors or discrepancies

• completeness
  To denote that all necessary items or parts are present and accounted for, without any missing pieces

Examples of All present and correct

• The teacher checked the class roll and announced, "All present and correct."

  This idiom is used to indicate that everyone is present and accounted for, and there are no absences or errors in the list. It is often used in a formal setting, such as a classroom or meeting, to ensure that all attendees are present and participating. The phrase "all present and correct" comes from military and police terminology, where it is used to describe a complete and accurate list of personnel. In everyday language, it is a concise and efficient way to communicate that everyone is accounted for.

Conclusion

The idiom "all present and correct" is commonly used in situations where accuracy or completeness is being confirmed. It can be used to indicate that everything is in the correct place and there are no errors or discrepancies, or to assure that all necessary components are present without any missing pieces. This idiom is often used in a formal or professional setting, such as in the military or in a workplace, to ensure that everything is in order.

Origin of "All present and correct"

The origin of this idiom can be traced back to the military, where it was used as a signal to indicate that all personnel were accounted for and ready for a mission. It was often used during roll call or inspections to confirm that everyone was present and in the correct position. Over time, the phrase evolved to be used in a more general sense to denote accuracy and completeness.

An early written usage of this idiom can be found in the book "The Quiver: An Illustrated Magazine for Sunday and General Reading" published in 1870, which states, "All present and correct, and not a man missing." This reinforces the military origin of the phrase. Today, it is commonly used in everyday language and has become a familiar and versatile way to confirm that everything is in order.