go out of one's way(redirected from out of one's way)
go out of (one's) way (to do something)
1. Literally, to travel somewhere by an indirect or circuitous route. Are you sure you want to go out of your way to deliver this package? Doing so will add 20 minutes onto our drive.
2. To make more effort than is required or expected (to help or benefit someone else). You need to thank Monica—she really went out of her way to get you this job interview. I'd appreciate your help with that if you can get to it, but don't go out of your way.
go out of one's way(to do something)
1. Lit. to travel an indirect route or an extra distance in order to do something. I'll have to go out of my way to give you a ride home. I'll give you a ride even though I have to go out of my way.
2. Fig. to make an effort to do something; to accept the bother of doing something. We went out of our way to please the visitor. We appreciate anything you can do, but don't go out of your way.
go out of one's way
Inconvenience oneself or take extra trouble to do something beyond what is required. For example, He went out of his way to introduce me to everyone there, or She went out of her way to be kind. This usage alludes to deviating from one's intended path or normal procedures. [Mid-1700s]