all right vs. alright

What is the difference between all right and alright?

Alright is a common contraction of the phrase all right, which can function as an adjective meaning “safe, sound, or well; healthy in mind or body; or correct, proper, or acceptable.” It can also be used as an adverb meaning “yes; satisfactorily; or certainly.” For example:
  • “That car nearly hit us! Are you and your sister all right?”
  • “I’ve haven’t gotten as much sleep as I should, but I’ve been all right otherwise.”
  • “We’ll have to wait a little longer, but that’s all right.”
  • All right, we’ll agree to the terms of the settlement.”
  • “You did all right, kid. Nice job.”
  • “Wow, this place is nice, all right.”
Although alright is very common in casual writing, it is still considered a nonstandard and informal term. If in doubt (and especially in formal or professional writing), use all right, as it is always the preferred spelling.
Get all volumes of The Farlex Grammar Book in paperback or eBook.
Share Tweet

Conversations