bend over backward — to make every possible effort to help someone or achieve something
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: to make every possible effort to help someone or achieve something
Pronunciation (IPA): /bɛnd ˈoʊvər ˈbækwərd/
Example Sentences
- My boss bends over backward to avoid firing anyone, even the employee who sleeps at his desk every day.
- The hotel staff bent over backward to make our wedding perfect.
- I bent over backward to help my roommate with his project, but he still blamed me when it failed.
bend over backward
NOUN[/bɛnd ˈoʊvər ˈbækwərd/]
to make every possible effort to help someone or achieve something
The hotel manager will bend over backward to make this couple's anniversary perfect.
Bend over backward, even if it's awkward!
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
This idiom originated from the literal physical action of bending one's body backward, an extremely difficult and strenuous feat requiring maximum effort. The phrase evolved metaphorically to describe making extraordinary efforts or going to great lengths to achieve something or help someone.
Breakdown
bend (to curve or flex) + over (beyond a limit) + backward (toward the back) = to flex one's body to an extreme degree backward, signifying extraordinary exertion or dedication.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“My boss bends over backward to avoid firing anyone, even the employee who sleeps at his desk every day.”
“The hotel staff bent over backward to make our wedding perfect.”
“I bent over backward to help my roommate with his project, but he still blamed me when it failed.”
“The restaurant bent over backward to recreate a childhood dish for the nostalgic customer.”
📚Related Words
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