Go whole hog
Meaning
To do something completely and without reservation, committing fully to an action or idea.
Origin
The vivid phrase "go whole hog" burst into the American lexicon in the early 19th century, painting a picture of total commitment that harkened back to the practical realities of farming and butchering. Imagine a farmer preparing a pig for market or for a family feast. To "go whole hog" meant to process and utilize the entire animal—not just prime cuts, but every part, from the trotters to the ears. This decision to commit fully and use everything available, without waste or reservation, quickly became a potent metaphor for tackling any task or endeavor with complete, unrestrained enthusiasm and dedication, leaving nothing undone.
Examples
- When they decided to redecorate their house, they decided to go whole hog and overhaul every single room, even the attic.
- After receiving his promotion, John decided to go whole hog and invest in a brand-new, top-of-the-line sports car.