The phrase 'like all get out' is an informal expression meaning 'to an extreme degree'. In terms of spelling, it is pronounced /laɪk ɔːl ɡɛt aʊt/, with the 'ai' sound in 'like' pronounced as in 'eye', the 'o' in 'all' pronounced as in 'haul', and the 'get' and 'out' pronounced as spelled. The use of 'get out' in the phrase is thought to originate from African-American dialect, while 'all' intensifies the meaning.
Like all get out is an idiomatic expression used to intensify or emphasize a particular quality or characteristic to an extreme extent. This phrase is typically used to convey a sense of exaggeration or intensity and is commonly used in informal or colloquial contexts.
The phrase "like all get out" is often used to amplify adjectives, adverbs, or verbs, emphasizing the extremity of the described action or condition. It is synonymous with phrases like "to the utmost extent" or "to a great degree." For example, if someone says, "He was scared like all get out," it means that the person was extremely frightened, with an intensity beyond ordinary fear.
The origin of this expression is challenging to trace, but it likely stems from regional American dialects. It can be considered a variant of the older expression "hell of a" or similar phrases intended to intensify descriptions. The term "get out" possibly refers to the notion of pushing or stretching something to its limits.
In summary, "like all get out" is an idiomatic expression used to intensify qualities or characteristics to an extreme degree. It serves to emphasize the intensity, exaggeration, or extremity of a given condition, action, or state. However, it is important to note that this phrase is informal and should be used in appropriate informal settings.