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What does "by all means" mean?

  1. Also, by all manner of means. In every possible way, as in I plan to make use of him by all means. [Late 1400s]
  2. Also, by all manner of means. Without fail, at any cost, as in Losing the contract is to be avoided by all means. [c. 1600]
  3. Certainly, yes, as in Are you coming tonight?—By all means, I'll be there. [Late 1600s] Also see by any means; by no means.

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