boil the ocean

/bˈɔɪl ðɪ ˈəʊʃən/

/bˈɔɪl ðɪ ˈoʊʃən/

[phrase]

to boil the ocean

[PHRASE]

to make an attempt to achieve something that seems extremely difficult or even impossible

to [boil] the ocean definition and meaning

What is the origin of the idiom "boil the ocean" and when to use it?

The phrase "boil the ocean" likely originated from the idea of trying to boil the entire ocean, which is obviously impossible. Today, the idiom is commonly used in business or corporate contexts to describe a situation where someone is attempting to achieve an unattainable or impractical goal, often at great expense or effort. The phrase can also be used more broadly to describe any situation where someone is attempting to achieve something that is beyond their capabilities or resources.

Examples

1. If we don't prioritize our goals and resources, we'll end up boiling the ocean instead of achieving meaningful results.

2. Trying to achieve perfection in every aspect of the project is like trying to boil the ocean - it's not a realistic goal.

3. The team is spending too much time on minor details instead of focusing on the bigger picture - they're boiling the ocean.

4. The company wasted months trying to develop a product that was too complex and ultimately failed - they were boiling the ocean.

Nearby words