strain every nerve
strain every nerve (hyperbolic metaphor)
/streɪn ˈɛvri nɜːrv/
Meanings
- To make the greatest possible effort to achieve something difficult.
- To use all one’s strength, energy, or determination to succeed.
- To push oneself to the absolute limit, mentally or physically.
- To stretch the body or muscles to their maximum capacity. (literal)
Synonyms: make every effort; do one’s utmost; go all out; push to the limit; exert oneself fully; give it everything.
Example Sentences
- She strained every nerve to secure the contract before the competitors stepped in.
- The team strain every nerve during the final minutes of the match to avoid defeat.
- He strains every nerve to rebuild his life after the unexpected setback.
- The climber strained every nerve as he pulled himself over the edge of the cliff. (literal)
Etymology and Origin
The phrase “strain every nerve” derives from the metaphorical extension of physical exertion, where “nerve” originally referred to a sinew or tendon in anatomical contexts. This usage reflects an older linguistic convention in which bodily components symbolized strength and effort. The expression conveys the idea of applying maximum force, akin to stretching tendons to their limit during intense activity. Its roots trace back to classical influences, where similar concepts of fervent striving appeared in ancient philosophical texts, emphasizing the pursuit of excellence through utmost endeavor.
Historical Development
Over time, the phrase evolved into a common idiom representing the dedication of all available resources to achieve a goal. It gained prominence in literary and rhetorical contexts during the Enlightenment era, often employed to describe moral, physical, or intellectual pursuits. Translations of ancient works contributed to its adoption, adapting ideas of stretching or extending oneself fully to modern English discourse. By the mid-eighteenth century, it had become a staple in writings that highlighted human ambition and resilience, reflecting broader cultural values of perseverance and determination.
Country of Origin
The idiom first emerged in England, where it integrated into the English language amid the literary and philosophical advancements of the period. Its appearance aligns with the linguistic traditions of British authors, who drew upon both native vernacular and classical inspirations to articulate concepts of extreme effort.
Earliest Printed Record
The initial documented instance of the phrase occurs in the work titled “Poems on Several Occasions,” authored by Stephen Duck and published in 1736. In this collection, the expression is used within a descriptive passage:
“Strain every nerve, and blow for blow we give.”
This quotation illustrates a scene of vigorous confrontation, underscoring the theme of unrelenting struggle.
Variants
- strain every sinew
- strain every nerve and sinew
- strain one’s nerves
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