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Region: General | Usage example: He burned the midnight oil finishing the grant proposal before the deadline.

Burn the midnight oil

Meaning

Work late into the night.

Usage

Used to describe dedication when preparing for exams, launches, or urgent tasks.

Origin & History

Origins and dates here are approximate summaries. Many idioms have disputed or unknown origins, and not every date has been checked against a historical dictionary, so treat specific dates and stories as a starting point rather than a citation.

Refers to working by the light of an oil lamp after dark.

Recorded in the 17th century, reflective of scholars studying after sunset long before electricity.

Related Idioms

Burn bridges

Destroy relationships beyond repair.

Feel the burn

Experience the intensity of effort, especially while exercising.

Don't burn your bridges

Do not sever relationships you might need later.

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.