fall over oneself

fall over (oneself)

To expend an inordinate amount of energy or effort to do something, especially as a means of gaining attention or approval. John is such a teacher's pet, falling over himself to impress Mrs. Smith. My parents fell over themselves trying to seem cool to my friends. It was pretty embarrassing, to be honest. I can't believe how ungrateful you're being, especially since we fell over ourselves planning this dinner party for you!

See also: fall, over

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

fall (all) over oneself (to do something)

Fig. to rush eagerly and awkwardly to do something. The boys fell all over themselves to open the door for Sarah. Larry fell over himself trying to help Sarah on with her coat.

See also: fall, over

McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs. © 2002 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.