The idiomatic meaning of "go the extra mile" is to make a greater effort than is expected or required in order to achieve something. It signifies a willingness to do more than the bare minimum, demonstrating dedication and commitment. It's about exceeding expectations and putting in extra effort to ensure a positive outcome.
There isn't a definitively documented origin, but the phrase is thought to allude to a passage in the Bible (Matthew 5:41): "And whosoever shall compel thee to go a mile, go with him twain." The idea is to do more than what is demanded of you.
The register is generally neutral, suitable for both professional and informal contexts.
"Go the extra mile" is a versatile idiom. It can be modified to fit different tenses and subjects. For example, you can say "went the extra mile," "going the extra mile," or "will go the extra mile." It can also be used in questions, such as "Are you willing to go the extra mile?" The idiom can be negated: "They didn't go the extra mile."
Using the phrase too literally can sound unnatural. For example, saying "He literally went an extra mile" when you mean he walked a further distance is not the idiomatic usage. Avoid using it in contexts where a literal distance is the focus, unless you are deliberately playing on the double meaning for humorous effect.
These examples are sourced from go the extra mile on Ludwig.guru.
"You have to go the extra mile"." — The New York Times
"They will go the extra mile." — The Guardian - Music
"Some businesses go the extra mile." — The New York Times
"Thomson would also go the extra mile for a fan." — The New York Times - Sports
"So the presidential campaigns have to go the extra mile." — The New York Times
Examples sourced from https://ludwig.guru/s/go+the+extra+mile
| Phrase | Context |
|---|---|
| go above and beyond | Similar meaning, emphasizes exceeding expectations significantly. |
| put in extra effort | More literal, less idiomatic, but conveys the same meaning. |
| bend over backwards | Implies a willingness to do almost anything to help. |
| give it your all | Suggests complete dedication and maximum effort. |
| exceed expectations | Focuses on surpassing what is anticipated. |
| go the distance | Emphasizes perseverance and completing a task despite challenges. |
| pull out all the stops | Implies using every available resource and method. |
| Expression | Idiomatic Meaning | Register | Avoid In |
|---|---|---|---|
| Go the extra mile | Make more effort than expected | Neutral | Literal contexts about distance |
"Go the extra mile" is almost always used figuratively, referring to exceeding expectations or making additional effort. While it originates from a concept of literal distance, its modern usage focuses on the effort one puts in, not physical travel. It's rare to hear it used literally unless deliberately playing on the idiom.
Both phrases mean exceeding expectations, but "go above and beyond" suggests a more significant level of effort than "go the extra mile." "Go the extra mile" implies doing more than what's required, while "go above and beyond" suggests doing considerably more, often in a particularly creative or helpful way.
Remember that "go the extra mile" is about effort, not geography. If you're tempted to use it when talking about physical distance, consider whether you're really trying to convey that someone put in extra effort to reach a destination. If not, a more literal description of distance is likely more appropriate.
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