It emphasizes determination and a willingness to go to extreme lengths to reach a goal, even if it means sacrificing other things or risking harm.
Here are some examples of how the idiom can be used:
* "He was determined to win the race, at any cost."
* "The company was willing to do at any cost to protect its reputation."
* "The soldiers were ordered to defend the position at any cost."
The idiom can also be used in a negative sense to describe someone who is too focused on achieving their goal and is willing to harm others or themselves to get there.
In summary, "at any cost" implies a strong commitment to a goal, even if it means making significant sacrifices or taking risks.