'Always' vs 'All Ways': What's the Difference?

If you are looking for an explanation of the difference between 'always' vs. 'all ways,' I can help!

Here is the short answer: 

• 'Always' is an adverb that means all the time or at all times. 
• 'All ways' is a noun phrase that includes every way, position, or direction. 

There is much more to learn about these two phrases and how to use them. So, keep reading this post with definitions, examples, tips, and other helpful information to understand the terms comprehensively.

What is the Difference Between 'Always' and 'All Ways?'

Many writers and English language learners get confused by the difference between 'always' vs. 'all ways.' However, you use these terms in different ways.

'Always' is an adverb, so you use it to describe a verb, for example:

• You 'always' go to the store without me.

On the other hand, you use the phrase 'all ways' to say that something applies to all the ways, directions, positions, or ranks that apply, for example:

• Please include 'all ways' you make money in your application.

So, 'always' describes a verb while 'all ways' is a noun phrase.

When to Use 'Always' vs. 'All Ways'

You learned that the difference between 'always' and 'all ways' is that 'always' describes a verb while 'all ways' describes a noun.

But how do you know when to use them? 

• Use 'always' to say that someone does something all the time.

For example, you could say:

She always jumps to conclusions without having all of the facts. 

• Use 'all ways' to describe a variety of ways.

For example, you might say:

Drinking water, taking vitamins, and eating a well-balanced diet are all ways that you can improve your health. 

• Use 'always' to tell someone they must do something each time they perform a task.

For example, I might say:

You always have to warm up the machine before you use it. Otherwise, you could damage the components.

• Use 'all ways' to say that something is exactly like something.

For example, you might hear someone say:

I never thought I would meet someone like me in all ways.

Definition of 'Always': What Does 'Always' Mean?

According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, 'always' is an adverb that means:

• Occurring all the time

It can also mean:

• Forever
• At any speed or rate

Synonym of 'Always'

• Perpetually
• Constantly
• Incessantly
• Unfailingly
• Ever
• Often
• Frequently
• Normally
• Usually
• Continuously
• Repeatedly
• Typically
• Generally
• Commonly
• Forever
• Ordinarily
• Routinely
• Dependably
• Often
• Everlastingly
• Habitually
• Eternally
• Steadily
• Recurrently

Definition of 'All Ways': What Does 'All Ways' Mean?

There is no definition for 'all ways' since it is a noun phrase instead of a word. So, we will look at the definitions of all and ways. 

Definition of 'All'

According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, 'all' is an adverb, adjective, and pronoun that means:

• The entire quantity, extent, or range of something

It can also mean:

• The most possible
• Every person, component, or member
• The sum or whole of something
• Every way means, or method
• Only or nothing but
• Completely occupied by something
• Having a prominent or excessive feature
• Paying complete attention
• Complete consumption
• Entirely consumed or used up
• More than one person or object
• The whole number or quantity of something
• The total of someone's worldly possessions

Definition of 'Ways'

According to the same reference, the definition of 'ways' is the plural of the noun way, which means:

• A road or thoroughfare you use to travel from one place to another

It can also mean:

• A passage
• A means of accomplishing
• A course of direction leading to a place or position
• An opportunity to do something by someone's own decision
• A feature
• A degree of participation

Pronunciation: How to Pronounce 'Always' vs. 'All Ways'

Now that you know how to use 'always' vs. 'all ways,' let's learn how to pronounce them. Learning the proper pronunciation will help you gain confidence when speaking or writing these terms.

So, here is a quick pronunciation guide.

• Use this phonetic spelling to pronounce 'always':

ôlwāz

• Use this phonetic spelling to pronounce 'all ways':

ôl wāz

As you can see, the pronunciation is similar. However, you pause between all and ways when you are using the phrase 'all ways.'

Sample Sentences Using 'Always' vs. 'All Ways'

Here are some sample sentences using 'always' vs. 'all ways.' Read through them to learn how to use them in different ways.

Always

• Always wash your hands when you go to the restroom.
• She always wears pink on her birthday because it is her favorite color.
• You should always take your car to a trustworthy mechanic for repairs.
• People always think the grass is greener on the other side. Then, they get to the other side and realize it isn't so great after all.
• You are the bane of my existence because you always nag me and invade my space.
• You are my best friend, and I will you always.

All Ways

• Screaming when I am trying to concentrate, throwing things all over the place, and interrupting me are all ways you get under my skin.
• Cute, pretty, and hot are all ways to tell someone you think they are attractive or that you like them.
• You can either choose to support the group in all ways, or you can stand with them on individual issues.
• These are all ways that you can wear the outfit.
• Please list all ways we can contact you.

Final Review of the Difference Between 'Always' vs. 'All Ways'

Finally, let's review what you just learned about the difference between 'always' vs. 'all ways': 

• 'Always' is an adverb that means something happens all the time. 
• 'All ways' is a noun phrase that means in every way. 

You may get confused even after learning the meaning and how to use these terms. So, if you need a reminder, you can 'always' come back to this page to review this lesson.

You can also learn about other commonly mistaken and misused English words in the confusing words section here. Each guide contains valuable information like definitions, usage tips, examples, and pronunciations.

So, they are an excellent resource for learning how to use words and expand your vocabulary.