# strain a point

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/strain-a-point
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To make a special effort; especially, to do a degree of violence to some principle or to one's own feelings.

## Examples

- I will strain a point to help you today.
- The rules are strict, but the manager might strain a point if you explain your situation clearly.
- Although the committee usually demands absolute adherence to protocol, they decided to strain a point in this instance to accommodate the urgent nature of the request.

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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.