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Region: Global | Usage example: She always goes the extra mile for clients, which is why they keep returning.

Go the extra mile

Meaning

Put in more effort than is required.

Usage

Popular during customer service or leadership training to praise exceptional effort.

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.

Christian scripture advises going two miles if compelled for one; later adopted into motivational speech.

Became a motivational catchphrase in 20th-century business literature, often paired with service excellence.

Related Idioms

Walk a mile in his shoes

Understand someone by experiencing their situation.

Slow and steady wins the race

Consistent effort often beats spurts of speed.

Lost in translation

Subtle meaning or nuance that does not survive translation from one language to another.

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.