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:
- He keeps trying to get his manuscripts published, but I think he is flogging a dead horse.
- There’s no use trying to keep this business going. We are flogging a dead horse.
- I’ve told him numerous times to manage his routine effectively, but I think I’ve just been flogging a dead horse.
- You’re flogging a dead horse trying to persuade him to come with us – he hates going out at night.
- 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.
- 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.
you are what you eat ❯❮ break a leg
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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