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  What it means

  Literally “to one and all.” This is an archaic-sounding phrase used to indicate that something is being announced publicly and solemnly for everyone to hear. It is most often paired with the verb ‘ogłaszać’ (to announce).

  Vocabulary

  • wszem — to everyone (archaic dative)
  • ogłaszać — to announce

  Grammar note

  'Wszem' is an old dative form of 'wszystek' (everyone). This is a fossilized phrase that is never broken apart.

  Cultural context

  Nowadays, it is often used with a hint of irony or mock-grandeur to make a simple announcement sound like a royal decree.

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