blue in the face
Meaning
Extremely exhausted or frustrated from trying, arguing, or talking for a long time without success.
Origin
From the literal idea of someone turning bluish from lack of oxygen after intense exertion (e.g., shouting/arguing). It became a figurative way to mean “to no avail, no matter how long you try.”
Notes
Often implies “it won’t change anything.” Common with argue/talk/try/explain: “until you’re blue in the face.” Slightly informal.
Examples
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You can argue with him until you’re blue in the face, but he won’t change his mind.
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I explained the rules until I was blue in the face, and they still didn’t listen.
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She can complain about the schedule until she’s blue in the face; the deadline isn’t moving.
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We can warn them until we’re blue in the face, but they keep taking the same risks.
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He practiced that speech until he was blue in the face, yet he still felt nervous on stage.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Usually used in the fixed phrase “until (you’re) blue in the face.” Also used predicatively: “I’m blue in the face from arguing.” Typically describes effort/speaking, not literal color.
Synonyms
- to no avail
- in vain
- till you’re hoarse
- endlessly
Antonyms
- with ease
- effortlessly
- successfully