spare no effort: Idiom Meaning and Origin

What does ‘spare no effort’ mean?

The idiom spare no effort means to put forth maximum effort and not hold back in order to achieve a goal or complete a task.

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The idiom "spare no effort" is a common phrase used in the English language. It implies the act of exerting the maximum amount of effort or energy towards achieving a particular goal or task. The idiom is often used to emphasize the determination and commitment required to accomplish a certain objective.

The phrase "spare no effort" originated from the 17th century and has its roots in Old English. Its usage can be traced back to the concept of not holding back or reserving any effort in pursuit of a desired outcome. The idiom implies a wholehearted dedication without any limitations or constraints, emphasizing the idea of giving one's all.

When used in everyday conversation or writing, "spare no effort" is typically used as a directive or encouragement to motivate someone to put forth their best effort. The idiom conveys the message that no effort or resource should be spared in order to achieve success or overcome obstacles.

The idiom "do one's utmost" is closely related to "spare no effort." Both idioms convey the idea of giving everything one has towards accomplishing a goal or task. "Do one's utmost" emphasizes the idea of going above and beyond one's normal capabilities, pushing the boundaries of what is normally expected or required. When faced with a challenging situation, it is important to do one's utmost and spare no effort in order to achieve the desired outcome.

Their determination and hard work paid off.

Similarly, the idiom "give one's all" is also related to "spare no effort." It signifies the act of putting forth one's maximum effort and dedicating oneself completely to a task or goal. "Give one's all" suggests a wholehearted commitment and leaving no room for half-hearted attempts. It encourages individuals to give their best and not hold anything back in order to achieve success.

The idiom "spare no effort" is often used in various contexts, including personal and professional spheres. In personal relationships, it can be used to convey the idea of going to great lengths to show love, support, or appreciation. Whether it is planning a surprise party, organizing a romantic date, or simply being there for a loved one in times of need, "spare no effort" emphasizes the importance of putting in the extra effort to make the other person feel valued.

In a professional setting, the idiom may be employed to encourage employees or team members to give their utmost effort to achieve a specific goal or meet a deadline. It serves as a reminder that success requires hard work, dedication, and a willingness to go above and beyond. By sparing no effort in their work, individuals can demonstrate their commitment and contribute to the overall success of the team or organization.

It is worth noting that the idiom "spare no effort" is often used figuratively and does not necessarily imply physical exertion. Instead, it emphasizes the level of dedication and commitment required to accomplish a task or achieve a desired outcome. It is about going the extra mile, putting in the extra time and effort, and doing whatever it takes to get the job done.

The idiom "spare no effort" is a widely used phrase in the English language that calls for maximum dedication and commitment towards achieving a specific goal or task. Its origins can be traced back to Old English, and it has since become a commonly used expression to encourage wholehearted effort without any reservations or limitations. The idiom highlights the importance of giving one's all and not holding back in the pursuit of success. By embodying the notion of exerting maximum effort, "spare no effort" serves as a reminder to strive towards our goals with unwavering determination. Similarly, the idioms "do one's utmost" and "give one's all" share the same underlying message, emphasizing the importance of giving everything we have in order to succeed.

Example usage

Examples of how the idiom "spare no effort" can be used in a sentence:

  1. She spared no effort to complete the project ahead of schedule.
  2. He spared no effort in training for the marathon, running every day for months.
  3. The rescue team spared no effort to save the stranded hikers, even in treacherous weather conditions.

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