[Idiom] USE ELBOW GREASE. - How Hard Work Leads to Great Rewards

To apply physical or mental effort.

Use elbow grease" means to put in a lot of physical or mental effort to get something done. The phrase evokes the image of someone getting their elbows dirty or greasy from hard work, possibly originating from the old days of using grease to fix or maintain machinery. In modern usage, it extends beyond physical labor to include mental effort required to solve problems or complete tasks. This idiom underscores the value of hard work and determination in achieving results, making it an essential concept for anyone looking to excel in their endeavors.

Example Sentences

1. If you really want this floor clean, you'll have to use some elbow grease.

   Achieving a thorough clean of the floor will require significant physical effort.

2. He managed to get the engine working again with a bit of elbow grease.

   He fixed the engine by putting in significant physical labor.

3. Tidying up the garage will require considerable elbow grease since it hasn't been cleaned in years.

   Cleaning the garage thoroughly will involve a lot of hard physical work because it has been neglected for a long time.