Pronunciation: [ˈɔːl tˈa͡ɪm] (IPA) 
The phrase "all time" is spelled with a silent "e" in the word "time." This means that the vowel sound in "time" is a long "i" sound, represented in IPA phonetic transcription as /aɪ/. The "t" and "m" sounds are pronounced separately, with a slight pause between them. This phrase is commonly used to refer to something that has been ongoing or true throughout history, such as "the greatest musician of all time."
The term "all time" is an idiomatic expression that refers to the entirety of a specific period or the total duration something has existed. It is commonly used to convey a sense of permanence or importance. As an adjective phrase, "all time" denotes the most complete or extreme example of a particular quality or achievement. It may also refer to a record or achievement that surpasses all previous or subsequent ones.
In a historical context, "all time" encompasses the entire span of history, from the distant past to the present. It implies a comprehensive evaluation or comparison that takes into account every relevant factor or data available. Thus, when someone is referred to as an "all-time great," it signifies that their accomplishments surpass those of any other individual in a particular field.
Furthermore, the term "all time" can be applied to various aspects of life, including sports, music, literature, and science, to acknowledge the highest levels of success or to emphasize a particularly remarkable achievement. For instance, an "all-time high" may describe the peak performance or value of a stock market or an athlete's personal record.
In summary, "all time" is a phrase that implies entirety, permanence, or extraordinary accomplishment, often used to identify the foremost or most exceptional record, achievement, or individual in a particular field or throughout history.
The term "all time" originated from Middle English, where "all" referred to "the whole" and "time" indicated a duration or period. It can be traced back to Old English, where "all" and "time" had similar meanings. The phrase "all time" signifies the entirety of a certain period or span, without any specific limitations.
