English · Work & Business
go the extra mile
/ɡəʊ ði ˈek.strə maɪl/
[/ɡəʊ ði ˈek.strə maɪl/]
make extra effort
Intermediatephrase
Definition
To make more effort than is expected or required.
Example
Our teacher always goes the extra mile, staying late to help any student who is struggling.
Our teacher always goes the extra mile, staying late to help any student who is struggling.
Etymology
From the Sermon on the Mount, where Jesus advises going two miles when compelled to go one.
How & Where It’s Used
Common, often admiring, for exceeding expectations.
Literary Heritage
Derives from Matthew 5:41 in the Bible: 'Whosoever shall compel thee to go a mile, go with him twain.'