"One size fits all" is a description for a product that would fit in all instances. The term has been extended to mean one style or procedure would fit in all related applications. It is an alternative for "Not everyone fits the mold." "Tool targets faulty, 'one-size-fits-all' computer interfaces", July 2008, EETimes.com, web:
-->showArticle.jhtml?articleID=209102259 EETimes-259
"

Arsenic Arsenic is a chemical element with the symbol As and atomic number 33. Arsenic occurs in many minerals, usually in combination with sulfur and metals, but also as a pure elemental crystal. Arsenic is a metalloid. It has various allotropes, ...

contamination lacks one-size-fits-all remedy", Jill Sakai, WISC.edu, December 10, 2007, web:
WISC-14545
It has been in use for over five decades. There are both positive and negative uses of the phrase.

History of the phrase

The term ''"one size fits all"'' has been used as a common, cliche phrase for over 5 decades.

Positive views of the phrase

There are several positive views of the phrase ''"one size fits all"'': :* A

wristwatch A watch is a portable timepiece intended to be carried or worn by a person. It is designed to keep a consistent movement despite the motions caused by the person's activities. A wristwatch is designed to be worn around the wrist, attached by ...

could be considered as fitting all people.For source references, refer to each nearby linked article. :* In women's clothing, a flexible or open garment can be labeled as one size fits all; however, the size is typically a medium size (able to expand), rather than actually fitting petite or extra-large (XL) sizes. :* A neck chain could be designed to be worn by a person of any size. :*

Bicycle helmet A bicycle helmet is a type of helmet designed to attenuate impacts to the head of a cyclist in falls while minimizing side effects such as interference with peripheral vision. There is ongoing scientific research into the degree of protection ...

s with ring fit systems allow for a single size, also known as universal fit. "One Size Fits All Bicycle Helmets", BHSI, April 2009, web
BHSI-onesiz
:* In military gear, some items have just one size (but smaller or larger people have already been excluded from military service). :* Many baseball hats available for commercial purchase are labeled "one-size-fits-all."

Negative views of the phrase

There are many negative views of the phrase ''"one size fits all"'' including: :* Many customers prefer to have custom-tailored clothing. :* Men's suits typically have specific sizes for chest & waist measurements. :*

Shoes A shoe is an item of footwear intended to protect and comfort the human foot. They are often worn with a sock. Shoes are also used as an item of decoration and fashion. The design of shoes has varied enormously through time and from culture t ...

are an example where sizes (and widths) vary depending on the specific person. :* For the

U.S. The United States of America (U.S.A. or USA), commonly known as the United States (U.S. or US) or America, is a country primarily located in North America. It consists of 50 states, a federal district, five major unincorporated territori ...

GI Bill in education, options and coverage will vary depending on each person. Politically, the phrase has come to mean that methods of administration or political beliefs in one country should not necessarily be applied to another.

Notes

{{Reflist Slang Clothing Design

History of the phrase

Positive views of the phrase

Negative views of the phrase

See also

Notes