go the extra mile — to do more than what is expected or required; to make an extra effort
Part of speech: VERB
Definition: to do more than what is expected or required; to make an extra effort
Pronunciation (IPA): /ɡoʊ ði ˈɛkstrə maɪl/
Example Sentences
- The pizza delivery guy went the extra mile by bringing napkins and parmesan cheese packets without being asked.
- My grandmother goes the extra mile by ironing my socks - even though I told her no one will see them.
- Our company expects all employees to go the extra mile to ensure customer satisfaction.
go the extra mile
VERB[/ɡoʊ ði ˈɛkstrə maɪl/]
to do more than what is expected or required; to make an extra effort
She stayed late to go the extra mile for her client's surprise gift.
Forget the style, go the extra mile!
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
This phrase originates from the Biblical Gospel of Matthew, specifically Jesus's teaching on turning the other cheek and loving one's enemies. Under Roman law, soldiers could compel citizens to carry their burden for one mile, but Jesus taught his followers to willingly carry it for two miles, establishing a principle of going beyond obligation to demonstrate compassion and service.
Breakdown
go (move forward) + extra (additional, beyond what is required) + mile (unit of distance, approximately 1.609 kilometers). The phrase combines these elements to create an idiomatic expression meaning to exceed expectations or exert additional effort beyond what is demanded.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The pizza delivery guy went the extra mile by bringing napkins and parmesan cheese packets without being asked.”
“My grandmother goes the extra mile by ironing my socks - even though I told her no one will see them.”
“Our company expects all employees to go the extra mile to ensure customer satisfaction.”
“The teacher went the extra mile by staying after school to help struggling students.”
📚Related Words
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