The phrase “all over town“ is used to indicate something is widespread or well-known across an entire town or community. It has both a literal meaning and a figurative one.
Meaning of “All over town”
Everywhere in Town: Describes something or someone physically moving around or being present in many locations within a town.
Example:
“Our dog got loose and ran all over town.”
(The dog moved around various parts of the town.)
Example:
“Jane looked all over town for a dress to wear to the party.”
(Jane searched multiple stores or locations within the town.)
Widely Known: Refers to information, news, or a rumor that has spread and is known by many people in town.
Example:
“Now keep this a secret. I don’t want it all over town.”
(The speaker wants to avoid the news spreading widely.)
Example:
“In a short time, the secret was known all over town.”
(The secret became public knowledge within the town.)
Equivalent expressions
- Throughout the town: Emphasizes wide coverage within a community.
- Making the rounds: Suggests information or someone is widely known or talked about.
The idiom “all over town“ captures the idea of something being present or known widely across a town, either through physical presence or shared information.
