be-all and end-all

1.
UKUSGeneralneutralidiomatic
- The most important element or ultimate purpose; the single thing regarded as essential above all others.
- The definitive or ultimate factor that determines value, priority, or outcome.
2.
UKGeneralformalliterary
- An ultimate end or final cause; the conclusive reason or final goal of an action or belief.
- That which is considered the ultimate arbiter or finality in a given context.

Examples:

No examples available.