lean over backward

lean over backward(s)

To expend a lot of energy or effort to do something; to inconvenience oneself. This phrase is often used to express frustration when one's efforts go unrecognized. I have been leaning over backwards to make sure that you have a wonderful visit, and you don't even care! The entire staff really needs to lean over backward while the CEO is visiting our office. I can't believe how ungrateful you're being, especially since we leaned over backward planning this dinner party for you!

See also: lean, over

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

bend/lean over backward, to

To exert oneself enormously, to go to a great deal of trouble to satisfy or please someone. Originating in the United States about 1920, this expression, with its image of straining to do a backbend, is well on its way to cliché status.

See also: bend, lean, over, to

lean over backward

See bend over backward.

See also: backward, lean, over

The Dictionary of Clichés by Christine Ammer Copyright © 2013 by Christine Ammer