go out of one's way

Idioms and Phrases

Inconvenience oneself or take extra trouble to do something beyond what is required. For example, He went out of his way to introduce me to everyone there , or She went out of her way to be kind . This usage alludes to deviating from one's intended path or normal procedures. [Mid-1700s]

Example Sentences

Essentially, it is an emotional response to a belief that one’s autonomy is being impinged on or threatened, and it typically involves an impulse to go out of one’s way to break the offending rule and thereby regain freedom and independence.

From Scientific American

It is always better to give all snakes a wide berth, and not to go out of one’s way to destroy them, unless they have taken up their residence in or near your house, or their destruction can be accomplished with ease and safety.

From Project Gutenberg

To strike the great Trunk Road higher up would be to go out of one’s way; to strike it lower down would be to strike the Authie Valley at an impassable point.

From Project Gutenberg

To go out of one's way to be obliging, to attempt to ingratiate one's self, brings difficulties.

From Project Gutenberg

Trees were lying across the muddy path; there were washed-out spots, making it necessary to go out of one's way.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• try
• worry about