all for the best


all for the best

Said of something that is a positive occurrence (especially when it initially seems bad or problematic). This is usually an expression of hope or insight after something has gone awry. I had to go home and change after spilling coffee on myself, but it was all for the best because I avoided a major traffic jam. I was really disappointed to get rejected from my first-choice school, but I think it will be all for the best because now I won't be so far from home.See also: all

all for the best

Also, for the best. Best in the long run, despite appearances to the contrary. It is often a response to an unhappy outcome, as in They had to sell their business, but since they weren't making money it's probably for the best , or The dress had been sold when she went back, but since it was a little too tight it's all for the best . [Late 1300s] See also: all