"Go the extra mile" means doing more than is required or expected in a given situation. It signifies putting in additional effort or exceeding the standard requirements to achieve something, often to ensure greater success or satisfaction. For example, an employee who works late to complete a project ahead of schedule or to an exceptionally high standard is said to "go the extra mile." This phrase can apply to various contexts, including work, personal relationships, and service provision, highlighting a commitment to excellence and a willingness to do more than is necessary.

In short:

• It signifies putting in more effort than is required.
• It applies to various contexts, such as work, personal relationships, and service.

What Does "Go the Extra Mile" Mean?

"Go the extra mile" is a metaphorical phrase that encourages exceeding expectations to achieve better results or greater satisfaction. It's about doing more than what is necessary or expected, often to ensure success, make a good impression, or provide additional help. This phrase can be used in personal and professional settings, suggesting high dedication, commitment, and effort.

More about the phrase's meaning:

• It's often associated with additional effort, dedication, or hard work.
• The phrase is used to commend individuals or actions that surpass standard expectations.
• It emphasizes a proactive attitude towards tasks, challenges, or responsibilities.
• "Going the extra mile" can improve outcomes, greater satisfaction, or recognition.
• It's seen as a positive trait in personal character or professional work ethic.

Where Does "Go the Extra Mile" Come From?

The phrase "go the extra mile" has biblical origins, specifically from the Sermon on the Mount, found in the Gospel of Matthew 5:41, where it is stated, "And whoever compels you to go one mile, go with him two." This was in reference to the practice of Roman soldiers, who had the authority to compel civilians in occupied territories to carry their equipment for a mile. The phrase, over time, has evolved to mean willingly doing more than what is required or expected in a figurative sense.

10 Examples of "Go the Extra Mile" in Sentences

To help you understand how to use this phrase, here are some examples:

• She decided to own it and go the extra mile to make up for her mistake.
• It was worth a shot to go the extra mile and impress his crush. He bought her flowers, chocolates, and a teddy bear.
• In customer service, going the extra mile can significantly improve customer satisfaction.
• She went the extra mile in her project, adding features not originally asked for but that greatly improved the final product.
• The athlete went the extra mile in training, practicing even on his days off.
• She wanted to style up and go the extra mile to look fabulous. She added some accessories, a scarf and a hat.
• He went the extra mile to ensure his clients were happy, offering services beyond what was agreed upon.
• He promised to abide with her and go the extra mile to support her. He listened to her problems and comforted her.
• The nurse went the extra mile to comfort her patients, showing compassion beyond her duties.
• The mechanic went the extra mile when repairing the car by fixing minor issues without additional charge.

Examples of "Go the Extra Mile" in Pop Culture

This phrase is commonly used in pop culture to depict characters or scenarios where individuals exceed expectations. It illustrates a willingness to put in more effort for the benefit of others or for personal achievement.

Some examples include:

• In her book "Go the Extra Mile, It's Rarely Crowded," Sheila M. Burke inspires with a collection of 240 quotes emphasizing the importance of exceeding expectations and the rewards of less-traveled paths.
• In the movie "He Got Game" (1998), a character comments on someone's effort by saying, "They go the extra mile, man."
• Laura Pausini's song "The Extra Mile" includes the heartfelt lyrics, "The arms I'm running to, I'll go the extra mile for you." This song expresses dedication and the willingness to do whatever it takes for a loved one.
• The news report on WTAJ highlights how mothers in Central Pennsylvania are going the extra mile to secure maternity care amidst a regional shortage, showcasing their resilience and determination.

Synonyms: Other/Different Ways to Say "Go the Extra Mile"

Here are some alternative phrases that express the same idea:

• Above and beyond
• Outdo oneself
• Put in extra effort
• Exceed expectations
• Go above and beyond
• Overdeliver
• Give 110%
• Go beyond the call of duty
• Stretch oneself
• Surpass expectations

10 Frequently Asked Questions About "Go the Extra Mile":

• What does "go the extra mile" mean?

"Go the extra mile" means to do more than what is required or expected in order to achieve greater success or satisfaction. It signifies additional effort, dedication, or hard work beyond the standard requirements.

• How can I use "go the extra mile" in a sentence?

You can use "go the extra mile" to describe someone's effort or dedication that exceeds what is normally expected. For example: "She always goes the extra mile to ensure her clients are satisfied."

• Is "go the extra mile" used in professional contexts only?

No, "go the extra mile" can be used in both professional and personal contexts to describe any situation where extra effort is made beyond what is required or expected.

• Does "go the extra mile" have a positive connotation?

Yes, "go the extra mile" has a positive connotation, as it highlights a person's willingness to put in more effort than what is necessary, often leading to better outcomes.

• Can "go the extra mile" be applied to teamwork?

Yes, "go the extra mile" can apply to teamwork when team members collectively put in extra effort to achieve a goal or complete a project successfully.

• What is the origin of "go the extra mile"?

The phrase "go the extra mile" has biblical origins, specifically from the Sermon on the Mount in the Gospel of Matthew, where it is used to encourage going beyond what is required or expected.

• Is it important to "go the extra mile" in customer service?

Yes, in customer service, going the extra mile is crucial as it can lead to increased customer satisfaction, loyalty, and positive word-of-mouth for the business.

• Can "going the extra mile" lead to burnout?

While going the extra mile is often seen as positive, it's important to balance effort with self-care to avoid burnout. Continuous overexertion without adequate rest can lead to burnout.

• How is "go the extra mile" different from "doing one's best"?

"Go the extra mile" implies doing more than what is typically expected or required, while "doing one's best" refers to putting in the greatest possible effort within the expected scope of work or responsibility.

• Does "go the extra mile" imply sacrifice?

Going the extra mile can imply a willingness to sacrifice additional time or resources beyond what is standard in order to achieve better outcomes or provide greater satisfaction.

Final Thoughts About "Go the Extra Mile"

The phrase "go the extra mile" is a powerful expression of dedication, effort, and commitment beyond what is expected. It's a valuable trait in any context, signifying a proactive approach to challenges and responsibilities. Whether in personal endeavors, professional tasks, or service to others, going the extra mile can lead to significant achievements and satisfaction.

To recap:

• It emphasizes the importance of additional effort and dedication.
• It applies across various contexts; it's a universally admired trait.
• It originated from a call to exceed expectations, and it remains relevant in encouraging excellence.
• While beneficial, it's important to balance such efforts with self-care to prevent burnout.