Definitions
Complete or thorough effort
To put in maximum effort or go to great lengths to accomplish a task or achieve a goal. This idiom suggests a high level of determination and dedication in pursuing something.Full or complete extent
To do something to its fullest extent or to the greatest degree possible. This can refer to completing a project or task, or experiencing something to its fullest potential.Full or complete amount
To use or consume all of something, often referring to food or drink. This can also be used figuratively to mean using all available resources or exhausting all possibilities.
Examples of Go the whole nine yards
The wedding planner went the whole nine yards to make sure everything was perfect for the couple's big day.
This idiom means to do something completely or fully. It comes from the idea that a football yardage is measured in nine-yard sections, so "going the whole nine yards" would mean using all of the available resources or effort. In this example, the wedding planner left no detail unattended and went above and beyond to ensure a flawless wedding.
The sales executive really went the whole nine yards in her presentation to the board.
Here, "going the whole nine yards" means that the sales executive gave a comprehensive and thorough presentation to the board. She left no stone unturned and covered all the necessary points to convince the board of her proposal's merits.
The chef went the whole nine yards to create a unique and unforgettable dining experience for his guests.
In this example, "going the whole nine yards" refers to the chef's efforts to create a truly exceptional dining experience for his guests. He spared no expense or effort in preparing the meal, using only the finest ingredients and presenting them in a creative and innovative way.
The athlete went the whole nine yards in her training regimen, pushing herself to the limit every day.
Here, "going the whole nine yards" means that the athlete trained with utmost dedication and intensity, leaving no room for compromise or half-measures. She pushed herself to the limit every day, striving for excellence and working tirelessly to achieve her goals.
The student went the whole nine yards to prepare for the exam, studying day and night for weeks on end.
In this example, "going the whole nine yards" refers to the student's diligent and thorough preparation for the exam. She devoted all her time and energy to studying, leaving no stone unturned and leaving nothing to chance. Her hard work and dedication paid off, as she aced the exam and achieved excellent results.
Conclusion
The idiom "go the whole nine yards" is commonly used to convey a sense of putting in maximum effort or completing something to its fullest extent. It can also refer to using all available resources or experiencing something to its fullest potential. This idiom is often used in a determined or assertive manner, emphasizing the importance of giving something one's all.Origin of "Go the whole nine yards"
The origin of this idiom is uncertain and there are several theories about its roots. One theory suggests that it comes from the length of a fabric bolt, which was typically nine yards long. Therefore, "going the whole nine yards" would mean using the entire bolt and not leaving any of it unused.
Another theory suggests that the phrase originated in the military, where a full ammunition belt for a machine gun was nine yards long. "Going the whole nine yards" would then refer to using all of the ammunition in an intense battle.
Some also believe that the phrase originated in American football, where the length of a football field is 100 yards. "Going the whole nine yards" would then mean completing the entire distance of the field, or giving it one's all in a game.
Overall, the exact origin of this idiom is still debated, but it is commonly used in English-speaking countries and has become a popular expression for emphasizing thoroughness and full effort.