English idiom

go the whole hog

Register · Neutral CEFR C1

Post

Figurative meaning

To commit fully to doing something, without holding anything back.

Word picture

Full commitment is pictured as taking or using the entire hog rather than only a part.

Example

“Once we decided to renovate the kitchen, we went the whole hog and replaced every appliance.”

Dictionary details

Component words

whole hog

Tags

Expressions connected by reviewed component words or topic tags.

mean business

to show serious determination to accomplish a goal

give someone a run for their money

to compete nearly as well as a much stronger opponent, forcing them to work hard for victory

go the extra mile

To make more effort than is expected or required.

have a go

to make an attempt at doing something

make up one's mind

to reach a decision, especially for oneself rather than following others

not on your life

used to refuse a suggestion in the strongest possible terms

Source methodology

Meanings, register, CEFR, and examples come from the reviewed dictionary record. Expression notes may describe a reviewed present-day word picture or a background note; they are not presented as verified etymology.

External links

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