If you want to know how to say “on-size-fits-all” without sounding too casual, we’re here to help!
Below, we’ve compiled a great list of formal and informal synonyms for “one-size-fits-all” that you can use at work or in your daily life.
So, read on to learn more!
One-Size-Fits-All Synonyms
- Versatile
- All-purpose
- All-encompassing
- Flexible
- Adaptable
- Multipurpose
- Multifunction
- Universal
- Malleable
- Multifaceted
- Adjustable
- Inclusive
- General
- Cover-all
- All-embracing
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- The term “one-size-fits-all” is correct and can be used in casual circumstances or to describe products.
- You can use “versatile” as a more formal alternative to “one-size-fits-all” at work.
- “All-purpose” is a direct synonym that you can use in less formal situations.
Keep reading to see a more in-depth discussion of our top alternatives to “one-size-fits-all.” In particular, we’ll show you how to use these synonyms in some examples.
Then, we’ll discuss the correctness of the phrase “one-size-fits-all” and whether it should always be hyphenated.
Versatile (Formal)
If you’re looking for another word for “on-size-fits-all” that you can use in a professional setting, we would recommend the word “versatile.”
If something is “versatile,” this means it can adapt to certain conditions or perform all kinds of different functionalities.
You can use this word to describe a physical thing or an idea or a concept. This makes it a useful term to use at work when you’re trying to sell your product or service.
“Versatile” is a more formal synonym for “one-size-fits-all.” Therefore, it’s a better phrase to use at work or in formal correspondence.
To see how you can use this phrase in your professional correspondence, have a look at the email example below:
Dear Deidre,
It’s important to emphasize that this strategy is versatile and will suit a variety of business types.
Sincerely,
Howard
You could also use this phrase during a presentation to your colleagues or clients, as illustrated in the following example:
Our new recruitment tool is versatile enough to help both sole traders and large corporations.
All-Purpose (Informal)
Another way to say “one-size-fits-all” in more casual circumstances is “all-purpose.”
If something is “all-purpose,” this means that it has a multitude of potential uses.
Therefore, if you’re unsure what to call a “one-size-fits-all” product or design, “all-purpose” is a great choice!
We wouldn’t recommend using the phrase “all-purpose” too readily in a professional setting.
After all, this is a very big promise to make about your services! Therefore, any shortcomings will be scrutinized by your clientele.
However, in less formal circumstances, “all-purpose” will be understood as meaning that something is very useful in many situations.
Therefore, you can describe your product as “all-purpose” as long as common sense dictates that it can only be used for what that type of thing is generally used for.
To see what we mean, check out this example:
Our all-purpose food processor can handle anything from fruit and nuts to broth and bones!
Finally, let’s see how you can use this phrase in a promotional email to a client:
Dear Felix,
Thank you for your recent purchase at our stores.
To show our appreciation, we will be throwing in an all-purpose air pump, perfect for your next camping adventure!
All the best,
Saul
Is It Correct to Say “One-Size-Fits-All”?
“One-size-fits-all” is a perfectly correct phrase!
We usually use it to refer to items of clothing that suit all body types. However, it can also be used to describe something that suits a multitude of purposes.
For example, you could use it at work to talk about a “one-size-fits-all” solution to an obstacle you are facing.
This would refer to an idea that will solve multiple issues at once. Or issues faced by multiple industries or types of businesses.
Let’s see how you can use the phrase “one-size-fits-all” in a sentence:
If we want to impress our diverse client base, we will need a one-size-fits-all approach in our strategies.
If you’re unsure whether “one-size-fits-all” should be hyphenated at all times, we’ll discuss that next!
Essentially, whether you should write this phrase as “one-size-fits-all” or “one size fits all” depends on context.
When you are using it an as adjective, it should be hyphenated. For example:
This is a stunning, on-size-fits-all dress.
However, when you are using it as an independent clause you can do away with the hyphens, like so:
The dresses they sell are lovely. Did you know one size fits all?
We hope this article has answered any questions you might have about the phrase “one-size-fits-all.”
If you want to keep our list of synonyms nearby for the future, why not bookmark this page so you can return whenever you like?