Elbow grease is a phrase used to describe the physical effort required to complete a task. It is spelled as "ˈɛlboʊ ɡriːs" in IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable of "elbow" is pronounced as the vowel sound in "bed," while the second syllable is pronounced with a long "o" sound as in "no." The word "grease" is pronounced as "ɡriːs" with a long "e" sound in the first syllable and an "s" sound at the end. Together, the phrase describes the act of using one's own physical effort or strength to complete a task.
"Elbow grease" is an idiomatic expression that refers to physical effort, energy, or hard work put into accomplishing a task. It is commonly used to describe the act of using one's own manual labor and force to overcome challenges, particularly in situations that require intense physical exertion or extensive effort. The term "elbow grease" implies the use of one's strength, determination, and perseverance in order to achieve a desired result.
Originating from the practice of applying force or pressure with the elbow during manual labor, such as scrubbing or polishing, it has evolved to reflect the idea of putting in extra effort or going the extra mile to achieve success. It implies that the task at hand requires dedication, physical involvement, and a strong work ethic.
The phrase is often used figuratively to encourage a person to work diligently or to metaphorically roll up their sleeves and actively engage in a demanding task. It conveys the idea that success does not come easily and that one must be willing to invest time, energy, and effort to achieve a desired outcome. "Elbow grease" encourages individuals to push through difficulties, persevere, and give their best in order to achieve the desired result, emphasizing the importance of hard work and dedication.
The etymology of the phrase "elbow grease" can be traced back to the 17th century. The word "elbow" refers to the joint in the middle of the arm between the forearm and the upper arm, while "grease" refers to a substance used to lubricate or provide smoothness.
Originally, "elbow grease" was a literal term, referring to the physical effort or force exerted by a person while doing manual labor, often requiring the bending of the elbow joint. The phrase emphasized the idea of applying one's own physical strength and effort to get a task done.
Over time, "elbow grease" gradually evolved into a metaphorical expression, primarily used to imply the use of hard work, exertion, or extra effort towards achieving a goal or completing a challenging task. The phrase has become idiomatic and is often used when talking about tasks that require extra physical or mental effort.