jump through hoops

Idioms  

1. Do just about anything to please someone. For example, The boss expects the entire staff to jump through hoops for him, or This violinist will jump through hoops for the conductor. This metaphoric expression alludes to trained circus animals jumping through hoops. [Early 1900s]

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Example Sentences

The rules vary widely, and hospitals often make you jump through hoops, but some do offer aid even to people who qualify as middle-class.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 18, 2026

“You have to jump through hoops to have an Airbnb,” she said.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 21, 2025

Another issue is that sites like Polymarket require users to jump through hoops to place a bet.

From Salon • Dec. 22, 2024

Medical experts say even states that do allow mental health exceptions require patients to jump through hoops that may be inaccessible to some people, especially those with low incomes.

From Seattle Times • Feb. 13, 2024

I made them jump through hoops, and they never knew it.”

From "East of Eden" by John Steinbeck