The phrase "bending over backward" is spelled with five syllables and the stress on the second syllable. The IPA phonetic transcription for the word would be /ˈbɛndɪŋ ˈəʊvər ˈbækwəd/. The spelling is consistent with English pronunciation rules, where the "e" in "bending" is pronounced as /ɛ/ and the "o" in "over" is pronounced as /əʊ/. The phrase means going to great lengths or making an extreme effort to accommodate someone or something.
The phrase "bending over backward" is an idiomatic expression that is used in informal contexts to describe an individual's extreme effort, willingness, or sacrifice in order to accommodate or please another person, often beyond a reasonable or expected degree. It is an exaggerated metaphorical action that figuratively suggests going to great lengths or contorting oneself physically or metaphorically to fulfill someone else's requests or preferences.
When someone is said to be "bending over backward," they are displaying an exceptional level of flexibility, adaptability, and selflessness. They are often willing to inconvenience themselves or rearrange their plans, opinions, or beliefs to cater to someone else's needs or desires. This expression commonly implies the abandonment of personal comfort or boundaries for the sake of maintaining peace, harmony, or a positive relationship.
The phrase is frequently used to emphasize the extent of someone's effort or to commend their outstanding commitment to accommodation or compromise. It highlights the idea of exerting oneself beyond what is reasonable, going above and beyond expectations, or sacrificing personal interests. However, it is essential to note that "bending over backward" can be seen as an extreme or even unhealthy behavior if taken to an excessive extreme, as it may result in neglecting one's own well-being or compromising personal values and boundaries.