all-too-human
UK[ˌɔːl tuː ˈhjuːmən]US[ˌɔːl tuː ˈhjuːmən]
adj
Used to describe a common human weakness or failing that is seen as very typical and unsurprising.
Morpheme Breakdown
all
too
human
all
entire, whole, every.
too
in addition; more than enough; excessively.
human
of or belonging to man.
Etymology
The phrase "all-too-human" is a modern English compound adjective, popularized by philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche's 1878 work Human, All Too Human (Menschliches, Allzumenschliches). It builds upon the simple adjective "human," derived from Latin hūmānus, which is itself linked to homō (man). The intensifying prefixes "all" and "too," both of Germanic origin, are added to create a critical and somewhat resigned tone. The construction literally means "excessively and wholly characteristic of humankind," evolving from a neutral descriptor to an idiom that highlights inevitable human flaws, limitations, and emotional vulnerabilities with philosophical irony.
Analysis
Structure: all + too + human
- all: From Old English eall, meaning "entire, whole, every." Functions as an intensifier in this compound.
- too: From Old English tō, an adverb meaning "in addition; more than enough; excessively." Functions as an intensifier, emphasizing excess.
- human: From Latin hūmānus, meaning "of or belonging to man." Functions as the core noun being modified.
Examples
His forgetfulness on their anniversary was an all-too-human mistake.
The politician's attempt to cover up the minor scandal was an all-too-human response.
The software's failure due to a simple coding error was a reminder of our all-too-human reliance on perfect execution.