put one's heart and soul into sth

The phrase put one's heart and soul into sth is often used in English, but what does this idiom mean? When idioms are used in the right situations, they strengthen communication and enrich the language. You can communicate more effectively by learning the meaning of put one's heart and soul into sth.

Meaning of "put one's heart and soul into sth"

Meaning

The phrase “put one’s heart and soul into something” is usually used to communicate the idea that someone is devoting a great amount of effort, enthusiasm and determination to a given task or situation. It implies that the person is investing a substantial amount of energy and enthusiasm and that they are experiencing a high level of emotional investment. In other words, they are not just “going through the motions” but truly putting their all into the endeavor.

Etymology

The phrase is thought to have originated in the form of a Latin proverb, “cor et anima,” which translates to mean “heart and soul.” The phrase is thought to have been introduced to English in the 1500s and been used regularly since the 1800s. In the 1800s the phrase began to appear frequently in religious texts, particularly in reference to prayer, but it came to be more widely used in the 20th century, in a broader context.

Usage

The phrase is often used as a compliment, to acknowledge the effort or dedication of another individual. It is also frequently used in a motivational sense, to encourage someone to “put their heart and soul” into something in order to achieve greater success. It can also be used to say that someone has performed a task to the best of their ability, or to express disappointment or regret in a situation.

Example Sentences

• I really put my heart and soul into that presentation, but I still didn’t get the job.
• He always puts his heart and soul into everything he does—that’s why he’s so successful.
• If you want to be successful, you have to put your heart and soul into it.
• She put her heart and soul into the project, so it was a great success.
• I always give one hundred percent and put my heart and soul into whatever I do.

The Surprising Origins of Everyday English Idioms

Many English idioms have surprisingly dark origins, often rooted in violence, death, and superstition. For instance, the phrase "raining cats and dogs" is said to have originated in the 17th century, when heavy rain would often cause dead animals to wash up on the streets. Meanwhile, the idiom "rule of thumb" is believed to have originated from a law that allowed men to beat their wives with a stick no thicker than their thumb.