do their damnedest

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "do their damnedest" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to express that someone is making a great effort or trying their hardest to achieve something. Example: "Despite the challenges, the team did their damnedest to meet the project deadline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

26 human-written examples

Most of the performers do their damnedest.

The New Yorker

Meanwhile the bowlers do their damnedest to knock it down.

The Guardian - Sport

"The British government can do their damnedest but they won't sink us".

The Guardian - Film

People will do their damnedest to find any quirks in the numbers".

The New York Times

So if they are allowed to come to office, they will very likely do their damnedest to cement their power by fair means or foul.

The Economist

But some contrary film-makers, for various reasons, do their damnedest to avoid the whole "Nazi unpleasantness", even if their chosen plots make it seemingly unavoidable.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

33 human-written examples

Besides, they did their damnedest to make you look unpretty.

The New York Times

Either the IRA had been doing their damnedest or Princess Diana had died.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Still, the real-life contestants did their damnedest to match them.

The Guardian - Opinion

"Our kids our doing their damnedest to keep their mouths shut," the military officer said.

The New York Times

White House officials "were so mad that somebody had actually 'interfered' in Iranian politics, because they were doing their damnedest to not interfere," the former Administration official said.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "do their damnedest" to convey a sense of strong effort and determination, particularly when facing challenges or opposition. It's suitable for situations where individuals are giving their absolute best.

Common error

While "do their damnedest" is widely understood, it can sound slightly informal or colloquial in very formal or academic writing. Consider using more neutral alternatives like "do their utmost" or "make every effort" in those settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "do their damnedest" functions as a verbal phrase indicating a high degree of effort or determination. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. It emphasizes the intensity of the attempt, suggesting that someone is trying as hard as they possibly can.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Science

9%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Reference

3%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "do their damnedest" is a common and acceptable way to express that someone is making a strong and determined effort. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used, primarily in news and media contexts. While generally neutral in register, it can be slightly informal for strict business or academic writing, where alternatives like "do their utmost" may be more suitable. When you want to emphasize the intensity of the effort, "do their damnedest" is an effective choice.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

do their utmost

More formal alternative; implies the highest possible effort.

give it their all

Idiomatic expression emphasizing complete effort and commitment.

try their hardest

Direct and common way to express putting in maximum effort.

make every effort

Highlights the deliberate application of effort.

go all out

Informal, suggesting unrestrained effort and enthusiasm.

exert themselves fully

Formal, emphasizes a complete use of one's capabilities.

strain every nerve

Emphasizes intense effort, often under pressure.

leave no stone unturned

Idiomatic expression suggesting thorough and exhaustive effort.

bend over backwards

Informal, indicates a willingness to go to extreme lengths.

work tirelessly

Focuses on persistent and unwavering effort over time.

FAQs

How can I use "do their damnedest" in a sentence?

You can use "do their damnedest" to describe someone making a great effort. For example, "Despite the setbacks, the team "did their damnedest" to finish the project on time."

What is a more formal way to say "do their damnedest"?

A more formal alternative to "do their damnedest" is "do their utmost". This phrase conveys a similar meaning but is better suited for professional or academic contexts.

Is "do their damnedest" appropriate for business writing?

While acceptable, "do their damnedest" might be perceived as slightly informal for strict business writing. Consider "make every effort" or "try their hardest" as alternatives.

What's the difference between "do their best" and "do their damnedest"?

"Do their best" implies a general effort, while "do their damnedest" suggests a more intense, determined effort, often in the face of significant obstacles. "Do their damnedest" carries a stronger emotional weight.