Waste time and energy on something that has no chance of succeeding
To attempt to make progress with something that has no future.
Waste effort on a lost cause
He keeps trying to get his manuscripts published, but I think he is flogging a dead horse.
There’s no use trying to keep this business going. We are flogging a dead horse.
I’ve told him numerous times to manage his routine effectively, but I think I’ve just been flogging a dead horse.
You’re flogging a dead horse trying to persuade him to come with us – he hates going out at night.
You keep trying to convince him to join your company, but I think you’re flogging a dead horse. He’s happy where he is.
The teacher was flogging a dead horse when he lectured the students about the dangers of too much technology – they were glued to their smartphones while he spoke.
Reissuing VHS tapes? You're flogging a dead horse there mate.
There is no origin for this idiom
Was this page helpful?
definition
Common phrase that has a specific meaning.