break back


break (one's) back

To put forth a great deal of effort. I've been breaking my back trying to get a passing grade this semester, so failing by two measly points is incredibly frustrating. Don't break your back trying to please these people—they'll never appreciate it.See also: back, break

break one's back

(to do something) Go to break one's neck (to do something).See also: back, break

break your ˈback doing something/to do something

work very hard to achieve something: I’ve been breaking my back to sell as many books as I can. ▶ ˈback-breaking adj. (of physical work) very hard and tiringSee also: back, break, something