What does “Flogging a dead horse” mean?

"Flogging a dead horse" means continuing to pursue a lost cause or pointless effort.

What context can I use the in?

Example

I tried to convince him to change his mind, but it felt like I was flogging a dead horse.

Example

The team kept practicing even though they were clearly outmatched. It was like they were flogging a dead horse.

Example

She kept trying to fix the broken computer, but it was a lost cause. She was just flogging a dead horse

Is “Flogging a dead horse” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Flogging a dead horse” 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 “Flogging a dead horse” effectively in context?

You can use "Flogging a Dead Horse" to describe a situation where someone is persistently and fruitlessly trying to achieve something that is no longer possible or worthwhile. For example, if a friend is trying to convince their partner to change their mind about something, even though it's clear that the decision has already been made, you might say, 'I understand your point, but it seems like you're flogging a dead horse at this point.'

1Relationships
She kept trying to revive their failing relationship, but it was like she was flogging a dead horse.
2Sports
The team was losing by a large margin, but their coach insisted on pushing them harder. It felt like they were flogging a dead horse.
3Problem-solving
He spent hours trying to fix his old computer, even though it was beyond repair. He was just flogging a dead horse.

Similar phrases to “Flogging a dead horse”:

Beating a dead horse

To continue discussing or arguing about a topic that has already been resolved or is no longer relevant

Example

They kept bringing up the issue, but it was like beating a dead horse.

Spinning one's wheels

To exert effort without making any progress or achieving the desired result

Example

He spent hours working on the project, but he was just spinning his wheels.

Banging one's head against a wall

To persistently try to solve a problem or achieve something without success

Example

She kept trying to convince him, but it was like banging her head against a wall.

Chasing one's tail

To engage in a futile or unproductive activity that leads to no meaningful outcome

Example

They spent hours discussing the issue, but they were just chasing their tails.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Flogging a dead horse” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Flogging a Dead Horse" is unknown. It is believed to have originated in the 19th century, possibly from the practice of whipping dead horses to make them move, which obviously would be futile.

Is “Flogging a dead horse” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "Flogging a Dead Horse" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to express the futility of continuing to pursue something that is no longer achievable or worthwhile.

What tone does “Flogging a dead horse” have?

"Flogging a Dead Horse" conveys a tone of frustration and resignation. It's often used to express a sense of wasted effort and the need to let go of a lost cause.

Can “Flogging a dead horse” be used in informal and formal settings?

Yes, "Flogging a Dead Horse" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that conveys the idea of persisting in a pointless endeavor. 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 realized he was flogging a dead horse and decided to move on.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Stop flogging a dead horse!' to imply the futility of someone's actions.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

waste one's time
beat a dead horse
pursue a lost cause
push a boulder uphill
run in circles

Antonyms

move on
let go
cut one's losses
focus on what matters
find a new approach