PhrasesHub

extra mile

    Definitions

      • go above and beyond
        To make an extra effort, often more than what is required or expected, in order to achieve a goal or help someone

      • discourage someone
        Advise against engaging in a particular activity or task, cautioning that it will not result in any positive outcome or benefit

    Examples of extra mile

    • The salesperson went the extra mile to ensure the customer was satisfied with their purchase.

      This example shows that the salesperson went beyond their regular duties to provide exceptional service to the customer. This could mean following up with the customer after the sale to ensure they are happy, offering extras or discounts, or even helping the customer with something unrelated to the purchase.

    • The athlete ran an extra mile during their training session to push themselves further.

      This example demonstrates that the athlete went above and beyond their regular training routine to improve their performance. By running an extra mile, they are challenging themselves and increasing their endurance, which will ultimately benefit them in competition.

    • The teacher went the extra mile to make sure all of her students understood the concept, even staying after school to provide additional help.

      This example highlights that the teacher went beyond their regular duties to ensure their students succeed. They recognized that some students may need extra support, so they provided it by staying after school to offer additional explanations and help.

    • The employee volunteered to work the extra mile during the company's busy season to ensure all of the work was completed on time.

      This example shows that the employee went above and beyond their regular duties to help the company during a busy time. By volunteering to work extra hours, they are demonstrating their commitment to the company and their willingness to help out during crunch time.

    • Sarah went above and beyond her job requirements by staying late to finish a project and even helped her coworker with their workload as well. She truly went the extra mile.

      This idiom means that someone has gone beyond what is expected of them in a particular situation. It implies that the person has put in additional effort or resources to achieve a positive outcome.

    • The chef experimented with unique ingredients and flavors, going far beyond the traditional recipe for the restaurant's signature dish. The result was a bold and delicious creation that left the customers amazed.

      In this example, the chef went the extra mile by being innovative and creative with the dish. This could lead to a better overall dining experience for the customers.

    • The athlete trained extra hours each day, determined to break the world record in his sport. His hard work and dedication paid off when he successfully achieved the feats.

      Here, the athlete went the extra mile by putting in extra effort and time in his training regimen. As a result, he was able to accomplish an impressive feat.

    • The writer meticulously edited and revised her manuscript multiple times, going through every sentence and paragraph to ensure the best possible outcome. Her self-criticism and dedication made it a successful and well-received piece.

      In this example, the writer went the extra mile by being thorough and meticulous with her editing process. This attention to detail and hard work contributed to the success of the piece.Note: Each example demonstrates the use of the idiom "going the extra mile" in a different context or situation.


    Conclusion

    The idiom "extra mile" can be used to describe going above and beyond what is required, whether in terms of effort or action. It can also be used to caution someone against engaging in a task that may not lead to any positive outcome.

    Origin of "extra mile"

    The origin of the idiom "extra mile" can be traced back to the Bible, specifically the New Testament. In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus speaks about going the "extra mile" in the context of carrying a Roman soldier's gear for an additional mile, even though only one mile was required by law. This act was seen as a demonstration of kindness and exceeding expectations.

    The idiom's meaning has evolved over time to represent making an additional effort or going beyond what is expected. It is now commonly used in both literal and figurative contexts to describe putting in extra effort or going the extra distance to achieve a goal. The idiom has become a popular saying in the English language, symbolizing dedication and perseverance.