bust a gut

bust a gut (to do something)

Fig. to work very hard; to strain oneself to accomplish something. (The word gut is considered impolite in some circumstances. Bust is a non-standard form of burst.) I don't intend to bust a gut to get there on time. I busted a gut to get there the last time, and I was the first one there.

See also: bust, gut

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bust a gut  (informal)

to work very hard or to make a big effort to achieve something I really bust a gut to get that report finished on time.

See also: bust, gut

bust a gut (laughing)  (informal)

to laugh a lot I bust a gut laughing at his imitation of the Queen.

See also: bust, gut

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bust a gut (slang)

1. to work very hard to achieve something It’s kind of sad to see these kids bust a gut chasing a dream that will never succeed.

2. to laugh very energetically I busted a gut reading that essay.

Etymology: based on the idea that extremely hard physical work or laughter could damage your gut (stomach)

See also: bust, gut