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a hundred and ten percent

An effort towards something that is greater than one believes one is capable of doing, i.e., beyond 100% of one's ability; often used as a motivation in sports. Primarily heard in US. Alright guys, we all need to dig deep for the second half of the game. Go out there and give a hundred and ten percent and bring home a win!

See also: and, hundred, percent, ten

give 110%

To put forth the absolute maximum amount of effort or energy possible (i.e., even more than is usually required or seems possible). We're going to have to give 110% if we want to get this project finished by the deadline. A win today secures our spot in the championship, so go out there and give 110%!

See also: give

Genius is ten percent inspiration and ninety percent perspiration.

Prov. People get brilliant results primarily by working hard, not because they have special inborn powers. Child: Betty always does the best drawings in art class. She must be a genius. Father: If you worked hard, you could do just as well. Remember, genius is ten percent inspiration and ninety percent perspiration.

See also: and, genius, ninety, percent, ten