all at once

Definition

Unexpectedly; without warning; all of a sudden.

Example Sentences

• "When all at once I saw a crowd, / A host, of golden daffodils"
• "I was on my way to the door, but all at once, through the fog in my head, I began to sight one reef that I hadn't paid any attention to afore."
• "There are too many to get in the lift all at once, so some must wait."