All Things to All Men
To be all things to all men: To adapt so as to satisfy everyone.
Origin and Definition
The term originates from the New Testament of the Bible, in the first book of Corinthians (9:22): “I am made all things to all men, that I might by all means save some.” Today, it is often used more negatively—suggesting that one cannot be all things to all men, although many still try, especially political candidates skilled in the art of rhetoric.
Synonyms
- People-pleaser
- Chameleon-like
- Jack-of-all-trades
Antonyms
- Single-minded
- Inflexible
- Unyielding
Similar Expressions
- Spread too thin - Trying to do too many things at once and hence, unable to do any of them adequately.
- Burning the candle at both ends - Doing too much without taking a break.
- Stretch oneself too far - Trying to reach a vast or diverse audience and falling short.
Related Proverbs
- A rolling stone gathers no moss: Changing your nature or focus too frequently doesn’t yield long-term success.
- Jack of all trades, master of none: Becoming competent in many areas yet not excelling in any specific one.
Quotes
“Trying to be all things to all persons is a surefire recipe for mediocrity.” - Biz Stone, Co-founder of Twitter
“He who trims himself to suit everyone will soon whittle himself away.” - Raymond Hull
Literature and Books
- “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” by Stephen R. Covey - Orientation on principle-centered approach within the realms of adaptability.
- “How to Win Friends and Influence People” by Dale Carnegie - Insights into engaging different personalities effectively.
Songs
- 🎵 “Who Are You” by The Who - Reflects the complexity of trying to cater to multiple expectations.
Movies
- 🎬 “Yes Man” (2008) - The protagonist tries to say ‘yes’ to everything and everyone, uncovering the pitfalls.
Inspirational Farewell
Embrace authenticity because the world needs you as you are, not as everyone else demands.
### Which of these fits the description of 'All things to all men'?
- [x] Politician adapting their message for different audiences
- [ ] A person exclusively following their own strict schedule
- [ ] An artist sticking to one style regardless of market trends
- [ ] Someone who never likes to change their opinions
> **Explanation:** Politicians often tailor their messages to appeal to diverse groups, striving to be all things to all men while compromising authenticity.
### True or False: "All things to all men" has a positive connotation in contemporary usage.
- [ ] True
- [x] False
> **Explanation:** Modern usage often presents a negative connotation, pointing to the futility and inauthenticity of trying to please everyone.
### What’s a synonym for 'all things to all men' in the context of adaptability?
- [ ] Immovable force
- [ ] Maverick
- [x] Chameleon-like
- [ ] Hermit
> **Explanation:** Someone who is 'Chameleon-like' adapts to many situations, striving to meet varying expectations, much like being all things to all men.
### Choose the related expression: “Trying to accommodate everyone.”
- [ ] Vacuuming a pool
- [x] Spread too thin
- [ ] Cooking without heat
- [ ] Static in movement
> **Explanation:** "Spread too thin" describes someone attempting to meet diverse needs, often at the cost of effective focus and depth, mirroring the essence of 'all things to all men.'
### Which book emphasizes adapting yet anchoring on principles?
- [ ] “Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind” by Yuval Noah Harari
- [x] “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” by Stephen R. Covey
- [ ] “Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen
- [ ] “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald
> **Explanation:** Stephen R. Covey’s “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” provides strategies for aligning with consistently held principles while being adaptable, an evolved form of being 'all things to all men.'
