Question 1

What does "cover all bases" mean?

Accepted Answer

To take every possible precaution or consider every possible aspect of a situation.

Question 2

How do you use "cover all bases" in a sentence?

Accepted Answer

Before launching, the team wanted to cover all bases and anticipate every objection.

Question 3

Is "cover all bases" formal or informal?

Accepted Answer

"cover all bases" is register-neutral — appropriate in both casual and formal contexts. Derived from baseball; used in business and planning contexts to mean being thorough.