bust a gut

Definition & Meaning of "bust a gut"

to bust a gut

PHRASE

to try one's best to do or achieve something

Example

She busted a gut trying to finish the project on time.

The team worked tirelessly and busted a gut to deliver the report on time.

I had to bust a gut just to keep up with the workload.

to laugh really hard, particularly to the point that one's stomach hurts

Idiom

Informal

What is the origin of the idiom "bust a gut" and when to use it?

The origin of the idiom "bust a gut" is not definitively documented. However, it likely evolved from the idea that laughing extremely hard could lead to the sensation of physical strain or discomfort in the abdominal area, which is colloquially referred to as the "gut." The expression is thought to have been coined as a playful and colorful way to convey the idea of finding something exceedingly funny.

Example

The stand-up comedian's performance was so hilarious that the audience nearly busted a gut from laughing so hard.

When they watched the comedy show together, they all laughed so much that they thought they might bust a gut.

Jane's witty jokes had her friends laughing so intensely that they feared they would bust a gut.