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Region: US | Usage example: Debating that policy now is like beating a dead horse.

Beat a dead horse

Meaning

Waste effort on something already decided.

Usage

Used to advise against rehashing settled matters.

Origin & History

Origin notes can vary by region and source; this page gives the commonly reported explanation and usage context.

Horse trading metaphor where flogging a dead animal is pointless.

19th-century American expression.

Related Idioms

Dead ringer

Someone or something nearly identical.

Dead to rights

Caught in the act with clear evidence.

Beat the bushes

Search thoroughly, especially for people or resources.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.