← Back to collection
Region: General | Usage example: This fundraiser needs everyone to go the distance.

Go the distance

Meaning

Complete something successfully.

Usage

Used for endurance tasks.

Origin & History

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

Sports term for finishing a race or fight.

Early 20th-century boxing commentary.

Related Idioms

A dog's breakfast

Something that is messy or a complete muddle.

Break the ice

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

A blessing in disguise

Something that initially seems bad but turns out to be positive.

More Idioms

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.

Barking up the wrong tree

Accusing or pursuing the wrong person/idea; making a false assumption.