Bend over backwards: Learn what the means through example!

What does “Bend over backwards” mean?

"Bend over backwards" means to make a great effort or go to great lengths to help or please someone.

What context can I use the in?

Example

I bent over backwards to accommodate all of their requests.

Example

He always bends over backwards to make his clients happy.

Example

She's willing to bend over backwards to support her friends

Is “Bend over backwards” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Bend over backwards” 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 “Bend over backwards” effectively in context?

You can use "Bend over backwards" to describe someone who is making a tremendous effort or going to great lengths to help or please someone. It emphasizes the idea of extreme dedication and willingness to do whatever it takes. For example, if a colleague is doing everything possible to assist you with a project, you might say, 'He's really bending over backwards to support me.'

• 1. Hospitality

  I bent over backwards to accommodate all of their requests during their stay.

• 2. Customer Service

  He always bends over backwards to make his clients happy.

• 3. Friendship

  She's willing to bend over backwards to support her friends in times of need.

Similar phrases to “Bend over backwards”:

Go the extra mile

To make an additional effort or do more than what is expected

Example

He always goes the extra mile to ensure customer satisfaction.

Jump through hoops

To go through a series of difficult or challenging tasks or requirements

Example

She had to jump through hoops to get the job.

Pull out all the stops

To make every possible effort or use all available resources

Example

They pulled out all the stops to organize a successful event.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Bend over backwards” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Bend over backwards" is unknown.

Is “Bend over backwards” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "Bend over backwards" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to describe someone who is making an extraordinary effort to help or please others.

What tone does “Bend over backwards” have?

"Bend over backwards" conveys a tone of extreme dedication and willingness to go above and beyond. It's often used to praise someone's selflessness and commitment to others.

Can “Bend over backwards” be used in informal and formal settings?

Yes, "Bend over backwards" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that highlights the idea of making a great effort to assist or satisfy someone. You can use it in casual conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as business meetings or professional emails.

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, 'She always bends over backwards to help her coworkers.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Time to "bend over backwards"!' to imply readiness to make a great effort.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

• make every effort
• do one's utmost
• put in a lot of effort
• go to great lengths
• leave no stone unturned

Antonyms

• not lift a finger
• do the bare minimum
• put in minimal effort
• take the easy way out
• be indifferent