Definitions
Make an extraordinary effort or sacrifice
To do everything possible to achieve a goal or please someone, even if it requires great effort or discomfort on one's part.Be extremely flexible
To be willing to change or adapt to a situation or person's needs, even if it is difficult or inconvenient.
Examples of Bend over backward
The customer service representative went above and beyond by bending over backward to resolve my issue.
This idiom means that someone has gone to great lengths to help or accommodate someone else. In this example, the customer service representative went beyond what was expected of them to resolve the issue. The phrase "bend over backward" is used to describe someone who has made a significant effort to help.
The teacher bent over backward to ensure that every student understood the lesson.
In this example, the teacher made a significant effort to ensure that all students understood the lesson. The phrase "bend over backward" is used to describe someone who has made a significant effort to help or accommodate others.
The manager bent over backward to meet the client's demands.
In this example, the manager made a significant effort to meet the client's demands. The phrase "bend over backward" is used to describe someone who has made a significant effort to help or accommodate others.
The coach bent over backward to develop the team's skills.
In this example, the coach made a significant effort to develop the team's skills. The phrase "bend over backward" is used to describe someone who has made a significant effort to help or accommodate others.
The boss bent over backward to please the client, but the client was still unhappy.
In this example, the boss made a significant effort to please the client, but the client was still unhappy. The phrase "bend over backward" is used to describe someone who has made a significant effort to help or accommodate others, but in this case, it did not result in the desired outcome.
Conclusion
The idiom "bend over backward" is commonly used to express the idea of going above and beyond what is expected or required in order to achieve a goal or please someone. It can also convey the notion of being extremely flexible and accommodating in a situation. In both cases, the intention is to show a high level of effort and willingness to achieve a desired outcome.Origin of "Bend over backward"
The origin of this idiom is unclear, but it is believed to have originated in the early 20th century. Some sources suggest that it may have originated from the physical act of bending over backwards, which requires a great deal of flexibility and effort. Others suggest that it may have originated from the phrase "bend over backward and jump through hoops," which was used to describe the actions of circus performers.
Regardless of its exact origin, the idiom has become a popular expression in English, used in both formal and informal contexts. It is often used in situations where someone is trying to achieve a difficult or challenging goal, or when someone is being asked to make a significant sacrifice. It can also be used sarcastically to express frustration or exhaustion with a particular task or situation. Overall, the idiom "bend over backward" is a versatile expression that conveys a strong sense of effort and determination.