flog a dead horse

flog a dead horse
also, beat a dead horse

Meaning:

  • waste energy on something that has no chance of succeeding
  • waste effort on a lost cause
  • engaging in a fruitless effort
  • attempting to revive interest in something which has died out

Example:

  1. He keeps trying to get his manuscripts published, but I think he is flogging a dead horse.
  2. There’s no use trying to keep this business going. We are flogging a dead horse.
  3. I’ve told him numerous times to manage his routine effectively, but I think I’ve just been flogging a dead horse.
  4. You’re flogging a dead horse trying to persuade him to come with us – he hates going out at night.
  5. You keep trying to convince him to join your company, but I think you’re flogging a dead horse. He’s happy where he is.
  6. The teacher was flogging a dead horse when he lectured the students about the dangers of too much technology – they were glued to their smartphones while he spoke.

Origin:
The phrase first appeared in print in 1859 in a report of a UK parliamentary debate.

F 3 Thoughts

3 Thoughts

Good
I need some more examples

- Vamshi February 15, 2019

I like this idioms meaning. Thank you

- Anonymous January 4, 2019

Give some easy examples to understand us

- Anonymous October 24, 2018

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Idiom of the Day

leaps and bounds

Meaning: progress very quickly

Example: Regan's reading skills are coming on in leaps and bounds with the new teacher. Read on

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