HIT WALL Meaning and
Definition
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The phrase "hit a wall" is an idiomatic expression that is commonly used to describe a situation where progress, productivity, or success suddenly comes to a stop or experiences a significant setback. This phrase is often used metaphorically to represent an obstacle or barrier that one encounters during their endeavors. The term "wall" implies an immovable, solid structure that prevents further advancement or forward momentum, much like an actual physical barrier.
When someone "hits a wall," they encounter a point where their efforts, whether physical, emotional, or intellectual, seem to be in vain or insufficient to overcome the challenge at hand. It suggests a sudden inability to make any further progress or achieve the desired outcome due to exhaustion, mental fatigue, or the absence of new ideas or strategies. This expression is often associated with feelings of frustration, disappointment, or hopelessness, as the individual may be unable to find a way to move forward or overcome the obstacle they have encountered.
"Hit a wall" can be used in various contexts, such as sports, education, work, or personal life. It implies reaching a point where one's capabilities, resources, or motivation have been exhausted or depleted, resulting in a temporary or prolonged halt in progress. To overcome such a setback, individuals often need to regroup, reassess their strategies, seek help or advice, or acquire new skills or knowledge to surmount the obstacle and continue making progress towards their goals.
Etymology of HIT WALL
The term "hit the wall" or "hit a wall" is a metaphorical expression used to describe the feeling of suddenly encountering an insurmountable problem or obstacle, experiencing a loss of energy or motivation, or reaching a point of exhaustion, both mentally and physically.
The etymology of this expression can be traced to the sport of running, particularly marathon running. In the context of long-distance running, "hitting the wall" refers to a point in the race when a runner suddenly feels extremely fatigued, often around the 20-mile mark of a marathon. At this stage, the body depletes its glycogen stores (the main source of energy), leading to a sudden drop in energy levels. The sensation is often described as feeling like one has hit a physical wall.
The origin of this phrase is believed to have come from the running community in the mid-20th century.
