Work your fingers to the bone Meaning in English
expression
Definition
To work extremely hard, often for a long time and to the point of physical or mental exhaustion.
Usage & Nuances
This is an informal, often dramatic idiom to express intense effort, usually without receiving much reward. Not used for light tasks—it's about prolonged, exhausting work. Can be applied to jobs, household chores, or helping others. Often used to describe personal sacrifice.
Example Sentences
My mother works her fingers to the bone every day to take care of us.
basic
They worked their fingers to the bone to finish the project on time.
basic
She works her fingers to the bone but never complains.
basic
I can’t believe you worked your fingers to the bone for this company and got no thanks at all.
natural
We worked our fingers to the bone getting the house ready for the party.
natural
You shouldn’t have to work your fingers to the bone just to make ends meet.
natural