What does “Bang One’s Head Against the Wall (Against a Brick Wall)” mean?
"Bang One’s Head Against the Wall (Against a Brick Wall)" means to repeatedly try to do something that is impossible or unlikely to succeed.
What context can I use the in?
Example
I've been banging my head against the wall trying to fix this computer issue.
Example
He's banging his head against a brick wall trying to convince them to change their minds.
Example
She's been banging her head against the wall trying to find a job in this tough economy
Is “Bang One’s Head Against the Wall (Against a Brick Wall)” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Bang One’s Head Against the Wall (Against a Brick Wall)” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “Bang One’s Head Against the Wall (Against a Brick Wall)” effectively in context?
You can use "Bang One’s Head Against the Wall (Against a Brick Wall)" to describe a situation where someone is repeatedly trying to do something that is impossible or unlikely to succeed. It emphasizes the frustration and futility of the effort. For example, if a friend is struggling to fix a broken relationship despite all the obstacles, you might say, 'You're just banging your head against the wall at this point.'
- 1Problem-solving
After hours of troubleshooting, he realized he was banging his head against the wall trying to fix the old computer.
- 2Persuasion
Despite presenting strong arguments, she felt like she was banging her head against a brick wall trying to convince them to change their minds.
- 3Job search
With the current economic conditions, she's been banging her head against the wall trying to find a job.
Similar phrases to “Bang One’s Head Against the Wall (Against a Brick Wall)”:
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Bang One’s Head Against the Wall (Against a Brick Wall)” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Bang One’s Head Against the Wall (Against a Brick Wall)" is unknown.
Is “Bang One’s Head Against the Wall (Against a Brick Wall)” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Bang One’s Head Against the Wall (Against a Brick Wall)" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to express frustration and the futility of persisting in a task that is unlikely to succeed.
What tone does “Bang One’s Head Against the Wall (Against a Brick Wall)” have?
"Bang One’s Head Against the Wall (Against a Brick Wall)" conveys a tone of exasperation and helplessness. It's used to describe situations where someone is facing insurmountable obstacles or challenges.
Can “Bang One’s Head Against the Wall (Against a Brick Wall)” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Bang One’s Head Against the Wall (Against a Brick Wall)" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that conveys the idea of futile efforts. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations, meetings, or professional correspondence.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'He's been banging his head against a brick wall trying to find a solution.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'I've been "banging my head against the wall"!' to express frustration.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- waste one's time
- pound one's head against the wall
- fight a losing battle
- pushing against a closed door
- sisyphus's task
Antonyms
- find a solution
- make progress
- achieve success
- break through
- overcome obstacles
