ENGLISH
REFERENCE

go out of one's way

idiom
Meaning

To make an extra effort, so as to help or hinder.


Examples
SIMPLE

She goes out of her way to help new students.

CONTEXTUAL

My neighbor went out of his way to drive me to the airport when my car broke down.

COMPLEX

The dedicated teacher consistently went out of her way to provide extra resources for students who struggled with the difficult material.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    a little of something goes a long way

    Only a small amount of something is usually required to produce a great effect.

  2. 02

    abound in one's own sense

    To follow one’s own inclinations and opinions.

  3. 03

    ace up one's sleeve

    A surprise advantage of which others are not aware.

  4. 04

    act one's age

    To behave in a manner appropriate to one's age.

  5. 05

    act one's age, not one's shoe size

    Synonym of act one's age (“to behave in a mature manner; to avoid being childish”).

  6. 06

    afraid of one's own shadow

    Exceptionally timid.

  7. 07

    air one's dirty laundry in public

    To reveal one's sordid secrets to the public.

  8. 08

    air one's dirty linen in public

    Synonym of air one's dirty laundry in public.

Last updated July 12, 2026