bang one’s head against a brick wall: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘bang one's head against a brick wall’ mean?
The idiom "bang one's head against a brick wall" means to keep trying to achieve something without any success or progress.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "run into a brick wall" means to encounter an obstacle or difficulty that is impossible to overcome or make progress with.
The idiom "drop a brick" means to say or do something embarrassing or tactless unintentionally.
The idiom "drop a brick" is an English expression that describes an action or statement that is unintentionally embarrassing or socially awkward. It is often used to refer to situations where a person says or does something inappropriate, offensive, or cringe-worthy, usually without intending to do so.
The idiom "drag one's feet" means to delay or procrastinate, often due to a lack of enthusiasm or motivation. It suggests a reluctance to take action or move forward with a task or decision.
The idiom "don't knock yourself out" means to not exert too much effort or strain oneself excessively in accomplishing a task or achieving a goal.
The idiom "don't knock yourself out" is commonly used in American English, especially in casual conversation. It is a figurative expression that suggests not exerting too much effort or taking unnecessary risks for a task or goal. The idiom advises against going to great lengths or pushing oneself too hard.
The idiom "dig one's heels in" means to refuse to change one's mind or course of action despite pressure or opposition.
The idiom "dig one's heels in" has a literal meaning derived from the action of a horse refusing to move forward by digging its heels into the ground. This association between the stubborn behavior of a horse and the determination of a human has been accepted as an idiomatic expression within the English language.
The idiom *crush it* means to do something with great success and excellence, often exceeding expectations or goals.
The idiom "crack on" means to continue doing something with determination and without delay. It implies a sense of perseverance and focus in order to complete a task or achieve a goal.
The idiom "come hell or high water" means that someone is determined to do something despite any difficulties or obstacles that may arise.
The Frustrating Pursuit
The idiom "bang one's head against a brick wall" is a commonly used expression that conveys a sense of frustration and futility. It represents the experience of individuals who persistently face obstacles or setbacks in their attempts to accomplish something. The origins of this idiom can be traced back to the early 20th century, and it has since become deeply ingrained in the English language.
The idiom metaphorically portrays the act of repeatedly hitting one's head against a solid and immovable object, specifically a brick wall. The vivid image created by this idiom captures the feelings of hopelessness and powerlessness that arise when confronted with insurmountable challenges.
The idiom "bang one's head against a brick wall" is often used in various contexts, both literal and figurative. In its literal sense, it can be used to describe someone physically attempting to break down a wall by banging their head against it. However, it is predominantly used figuratively, where the brick wall represents obstacles or barriers that hinder progress or success.
This expression is commonly used in everyday conversations, as well as in writing and media, to express exasperation and defeat. It is particularly fitting for situations where an individual's efforts seem futile, despite their persistence and dedication. Whether facing personal or professional struggles, this idiom effectively captures the frustration that arises when one's efforts appear to be in vain.
The usage of this idiom is prevalent across various age groups, regions, and social classes. It has become part of the common vernacular in English-speaking countries and is easily recognizable by native speakers. Often employed as an exaggeration, it emphasizes the difficulty and futility of a particular situation.
In addition to "bang one's head against a brick wall," there are related idioms like "run into a brick wall," "bang away," and "bang straw." These idioms are connected to the concept of facing obstacles or hindrances.
The idiom "run into a brick wall" is often used to describe encountering a significant obstacle that impedes progress or success. Just like banging one's head against a brick wall, this idiom conveys a sense of frustration and futility when faced with insurmountable challenges.
The phrase "bang away" is another related idiom, which can be used to describe persistently and energetically working on a task or problem. It signifies the determination and effort put into overcoming obstacles, even when faced with difficulties.
Similarly, the idiom "bang straw" refers to wasting one's time and effort on a useless or pointless endeavor. It highlights the futility of persevering in a situation that has no potential for success or progress.
These related idioms serve to illustrate different aspects of the central concept conveyed by "bang one's head against a brick wall." Together, they paint a comprehensive picture of the frustration, perseverance, and determination often experienced when attempting to overcome obstacles or barriers.
The idiom "bang one's head against a brick wall" has deep roots in the English language, symbolizing the struggle and futility in the face of insurmountable challenges. By using this idiom, individuals can effectively express their exasperation and feelings of defeat. Its widespread usage is a testament to its resonance with those facing difficult circumstances. Despite originating in the early 20th century, it remains relevant today, reminding us of the inherent difficulty in overcoming certain barriers.
Example usage
1. Despite his best efforts to convince his stubborn boss, Jack felt like he was banging his head against a brick wall.
2. Sarah kept trying to explain her point of view to her close-minded friends, but she felt like she was banging her head against a brick wall.
3. The teacher tried for weeks to help the struggling student understand the math concept, but it felt like she was banging her head against a brick wall.
More "Frustration" idioms
