move mountains
Money & work · Filed under M
In a sentence
- She was determined to move mountains to make her dream of becoming a doctor come true.
- The dedicated team of volunteers worked tirelessly to move mountains and provide aid to the earthquake victims.
- Despite facing numerous obstacles, their unwavering determination allowed them to move mountains and achieve their goal.
Where it comes from and how it is used
The idiom "move mountains" has its origin in religious texts and has been used in various contexts throughout history. It signifies achieving a difficult task or overcoming seemingly impossible obstacles. One of the earliest known instances of the phrase comes from the Bible, specifically in the New Testament. Jesus tells his disciples that if they have faith as small as a mustard seed, they can say to a mountain, "Move from here to there," and it will move. This serves as the foundation for the metaphorical use of the phrase today.
In English-speaking countries, the idiom "move mountains" is commonly used and has been documented in literature and other forms of media. It is often used to describe individuals or groups who display exceptional determination and perseverance in achieving their goals. The phrase emphasizes the immense difficulty of the task at hand.
The metaphorical meaning of "move mountains" is deeply ingrained in the English language and is frequently used in formal and informal contexts. It has been employed in fields like politics, business, sports, and personal development to highlight the idea of surpassing obstacles and accomplishing extraordinary feats.
The phrase "move mountains" suggests grandiosity and ambition. It symbolizes the willingness to go to great lengths and undertake arduous efforts to achieve a desired outcome. Individuals who face significant challenges or seemingly insurmountable barriers often resonate with this idiom.
The significance of the idiom lies in its universality. The idea of moving mountains transcends cultural and linguistic boundaries, making it a widely understood and relatable metaphor worldwide.
Although the idiom "move mountains" has a well-established and commonly accepted meaning, its interpretation can vary based on personal experiences and cultural background. It evokes a spirit of determination, perseverance, and the belief that anything is possible with sufficient effort and resolve.
Like many idioms, the meaning of "move mountains" is not fixed and can continue to evolve over time. It remains a powerful expression that captures the essence of human ambition and resilience in the face of adversity, providing enduring inspiration and motivation.
When it comes to idioms, they serve as powerful tools for expressing complex ideas with simplicity and imagery. "Move mountains," "move heaven and earth," and "have a mountain to climb" are idioms that convey the challenges, dedication, and immense effort involved in achieving success and overcoming obstacles. They inspire individuals to push their limits and believe in their ability to surmount any difficulty on their path toward achieving their goals.
Neighbouring idioms
- move heaven and earthEffort & character
- have a mountain to climb
- push water uphill
- uphill battleTrouble & conflict
- rise to the challengeEffort & character
- pass the riverPlaces & travel
- over the hills and far away
- move furniture
Know an earlier use or a better origin story?Tell us.