# don't knock yourself out

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/dont-knock-yourself-out
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

Don't overexert yourself (in doing something that does not require much effort).

## Examples

- Don't knock yourself out cleaning the garage today.
- I appreciate your help with the report, but don't knock yourself out finishing it tonight.
- While your dedication is admirable, please don't knock yourself out trying to perfect every minor detail of the presentation.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.