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Region: US | Usage example: You can argue till you’re blue in the face; I’m not changing my mind.

Blue in the face

Meaning

Extremely frustrated from repeating something.

Usage

Used to emphasize futility.

Origin & History

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

Likely from blood turning blue when oxygen is low, thus representing exhaustion.

Early 20th-century American slang.

Related Idioms

Once in a blue moon

Very rarely.

Out of the blue

Unexpectedly.

Face the music

Accept unpleasant consequences.

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.