break (one's) neck

break (one's) neck

To put forth a great deal of effort. I've been breaking my neck trying to get a passing grade this semester, so failing by two measly points is incredibly frustrating. Don't break your neck trying to please these people—they'll never appreciate it.
See also: break, neck
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

break one's neck (to do something)

 and break one's back (to do something)
Fig. to work very hard to accomplish something. I broke my neck to get here on time. There is no point in breaking your back. Take your time.
See also: break, neck
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs.

break one's neck

see under break one's back.
See also: break, neck
The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer.

break your neck to do something

exert yourself to the utmost to achieve something. informal
See also: break, neck, something
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary

break your ˈneck (doing something/to do something)

(informal) make a great effort: There’s no need to break your neck trying to get here by five. We can always wait for you.
See also: break, neck
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary

break (one's) neck

To make the utmost possible effort.
See also: break, neck
American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition.
See also:
  • break neck
  • break one's neck
  • break your neck
  • break your neck to do something
  • break your back
  • break your back doing something/to do something
  • break one's back
  • break (one's) back
  • break back
  • break (one's) back to (do something)