What are the definitions of “bend over backwards”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Do a lot to try to help or please someone.
I BENT OVER BACKWARDS for them and they didn't even thank me.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “bend over backwards”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb bend over backwards is to make a great effort to help or please someone, often going beyond what is expected or required. It means that you are trying very hard to accommodate someone's needs or wishes.
What are the different verb forms of “bend over backwards”?
| Root Verb | bend over backwards |
| Third Person Singular Present | bends over backwards |
| Present Participle | bending over backwards |
| Simple Past | bent over backwards |
| Past Participle | bent over backwards |
Example
I always bend over backwards to make my guests feel comfortable.
Example
She bends over backwards to help her friends in need.
Example
He is bending over backwards to finish the project on time.
Example
They bent over backwards to make the event a success.
Example
We have bent over backwards to accommodate their requests.
What kind of phrasal verb is “bend over backwards”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Intransitive verb
“bend over backwards” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.
Example
She bent over backwards to help her friend.
Example
He bent over backwards to make the party perfect.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“bend over backwards” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
She bent over backwards to help her friend.
Example
He bent over backwards to make the party perfect.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “bend over backwards”?
Bend over backwards to accommodate
To make a great effort to meet someone's needs or requests.
Example
The hotel staff bent over backwards to accommodate our special requests.
Good things to know
Does “bend over backwards” have an informal or formal tone?
Bend over backwards is an informal phrasal verb that is commonly used in everyday conversations. It is not typically used in formal writing or professional settings. In more formal contexts, you might use phrases like 'make a great effort,' 'go out of one's way,' or 'strive to please' instead.
What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “bend over backwards”?
Synonyms
- go the extra mile
- strive to please
- make a great effort
- go out of one's way
- do one's utmost
- try hard
- exert oneself
