Bend Over Backward
Have you ever found yourself bending over backward to help someone out, only to realize you now need a chiropractor? Well, we’ve all been there, metaphorically at least. This phrase means to make every effort, to go out of one’s way, or to do whatever it takes to help or please someone. The origin is thought to come from gymnastics or acrobatics, where such flexibility is often required.
Synonyms: Go the extra mile, give your all, do whatever it takes, pull out all the stops.
Antonyms: Make no effort, disregard, neglect, slack off.
Related Expressions:
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“Move mountains” – Make very great efforts to achieve something.
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“Go to great lengths” – To do whatever is necessary, regardless of difficulty, to achieve something.
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“Go above and beyond” – To exceed expectations in efforts or behavior.
Humorous Quotes:
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“I bend over backward for everyone, but I somehow avoid becoming limber.” –W. T. Wittywords
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“If bending over backward were an Olympic sport, I’d have more contortions than followers on Instagram.” – A. Flex H. Olic
Proverb:
- “Where there’s a will, there’s a way.”
- “No good deed goes unpunished.” 😅
Literature and Cultural References:
- The Little Engine That Could – A tale of perseverance, and an engine that quite literally “bends over backward” to help.
- The Pursuit of Happyness – This movie showcases going beyond the extra mile to succeed.
- Atlas Shrugged by Ayn Rand – Talks about monumental efforts for principles and industry.
- “Power of Now” by Eckhart Tolle – Shares the importance of personal effort in achieving mindfulness and presence.
Songs:
- “I Will Survive” by Gloria Gaynor – The anthem of overcoming challenges.
- “Don’t Stop Believin’” by Journey – A timeless track about holding on to effort and belief.
Poetry:
- If by Rudyard Kipling – A venerable piece of poetry about resilience and effort.
Movies:
- Rocky – An underdog boxer who bends over backward to achieve greatness.
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Parting Thought: Always remember, even when you’re metaphorically bending over backward, taking a moment to pause and reflect can prevent you from tying yourself in unnecessary knots. ✨
