Break your back Meaning in English
expression
Definition
To work extremely hard, usually with great effort and sometimes exhaustion, often to achieve something or help someone.
Usage & Nuances
This is an informal idiom, often used to emphasize effort, not literally breaking your back. Common with phrases like 'just to...', e.g., 'break your back just to make ends meet.' Can be used positively or to express frustration.
Example Sentences
He breaks his back to provide for his family.
basic
Don’t break your back finishing this project tonight.
basic
She broke her back cleaning the whole house before the guests arrived.
basic
I’m not going to break my back for a boss who doesn’t care.
natural
You shouldn’t have to break your back just to get a small promotion.
natural
After years of breaking his back, he finally opened his own store.
natural