bend over backwards

Idioms and Phrases

Also, lean over backwards . Exert oneself to the fullest extent, as in Dad bent over backwards so as not to embarrass Stasia's new boyfriend . This phrase transfers the gymnastic feat of a backbend to taking a great deal of trouble for someone or something. [c. 1920] Also see under fall all over .

Example Sentences

Someone who is not only a former president, but is a leading candidate, a judge is going to bend over backwards to avoid putting him in jail.

From Salon

“We are bending over backwards,” said Patrick McCormick, the head of hiring at the San Francisco Police Department.

From Seattle Times

“If I’m not bending over backwards and am like, ‘Oh my God, I’m so grateful.

From Seattle Times

“The judges are bending over backwards to avoid litigation over whether Trump’s rights are being infringed,” said Donald B. Ayer, who was a top Justice Department official in the George H.W.

From Los Angeles Times

"He is showing how he is bending over backwards."

From Salon