PhrasesHub

Go the extra mile

    Definitions

      • put in extra effort
        When someone is willing to go above and beyond what is expected of them, often in a work or personal setting. This can also refer to doing more than what is required or asked of them in order to achieve a desired outcome or goal.

      • exceed expectations
        To surpass or go beyond what is considered the normal or expected level of effort or achievement. This can refer to someone who consistently puts in more effort than required, resulting in exceptional results or outcomes.

      • do more than necessary
        To do more than is necessary or expected in a particular situation or task. This can be seen as going above and beyond what is required, often in order to achieve a desired outcome or to stand out from others.

    Examples of Go the extra mile

    • The salesperson went the extra mile to close the deal by offering a discount and expedited shipping.

      This idiom means to do more than what is expected or necessary to achieve a goal. In this example, the salesperson went above and beyond to secure the sale by providing a discount and faster shipping.

    • The chef went the extra mile to create a unique dining experience by using unconventional ingredients and presenting the dishes in an artistic way.

      This example shows how the idiom can be used in a creative context. The chef's efforts to make the dining experience memorable and distinctive go beyond the typical expectations of a restaurant meal.

    • The student went the extra mile to prepare for the exam by studying for hours every day and seeking extra help from the teacher.

      This example illustrates how the idiom can be applied to academic settings. The student's diligent efforts to excel in the exam exceed the standard requirements for studying.

    • The athlete went the extra mile to train for the competition by waking up early every morning and practicing for several hours.

      This example demonstrates how the idiom can be used in athletic contexts. The athlete's dedication to training goes beyond the typical expectations of a regular workout routine.

    • The employee went the extra mile to complete the project by working overtime and collaborating with other team members.

      This example shows how the idiom can be applied to professional settings. The employee's commitment to completing the project goes beyond the standard requirements of the job.


    Conclusion

    The idiom "go the extra mile" is often used to describe someone who is willing to put in extra effort or exceed expectations in a given situation or task. It can also refer to doing more than what is necessary or expected in order to achieve a desired outcome or goal. This phrase is commonly used in both personal and professional contexts, highlighting the importance of going above and beyond in order to achieve success or stand out from others.

    Origin of "Go the extra mile"

    The origin of this idiom can be traced back to the Bible, specifically the Sermon on the Mount in the book of Matthew. In this sermon, Jesus speaks of going the extra mile as a way to show love and kindness to others, even those who may not deserve it. This concept of going above and beyond what is expected has been carried through various cultures and languages, eventually becoming a common phrase in English.

    In modern times, the phrase gained popularity during World War II, when British Prime Minister Winston Churchill used it in a speech to encourage people to put in extra effort and sacrifices for the war effort. It has since become a well-known saying, often used to motivate and inspire individuals to go above and beyond in their actions and endeavors.