go the distance Definition

distance
noun

1. The measured length between two points in space.

Thesaurus: expanse, extent, reach, span, range, length, width.
2. The fact of being apart.
3. Any faraway point or place; the furthest visible area.

Thesaurus: background, horizon.
4. Coldness of manner.

Thesaurus: aloofness, coldness, coolness, remoteness, diffidence, reserve, restraint, stand-offishness, stiffness.
(Brit)
5. horse-racing.
A point 240 yards back from the winning post.
(US)
6. horse-racing.
A final stretch of the course which a horse must reach during the heats before the winner reaches the finish, in order to qualify for the final heat.

adj

1. Said of races: over a long distance.
2. Said of athletes: competing in longer races.

verb distanced, distancing

1. To put someone or something at a distance.
2. To declare oneself to be unconnected or unsympathetic to something.

Example: distanced themselves from government policy
Form: distance oneself from someone (usually)
Form: distance oneself from something

Idiom: go the distance

colloq
Said especially of someone involved in a sporting contest, especially in boxing: to last out until the end.

Idiom: keep one's distance

To stay safely away, especially refusing involvement; to avoid friendship or familiarity.

Etymology: 13c: from Latin distancia.