More grease to your elbow

Many people believe that the elbow joint is comparable to machine parts that become more flexible when grease or oil is applied to them. Hence the expression, “more grease to your elbow.” 

Another school of thought suggests that, since ‘elbow grease’ means ‘hard work,’ it is not out of place to say: ‘more grease to your elbow.’

As practicable as these viewpoints may be, they are misleading comparisons, and the expression  -  ‘more grease to your elbow’  -  is wrong.

The correct expression is, “more power to your elbow.” It is a particularly British expression that is used to appreciate people’s efforts. While grease might imply smooth operation or ease, the original phrase uses ‘power’ to convey energy and strength.

The phrase is another way of saying good luck, well done, keep up the good work, may you continue to succeed, and so on. Another way of explaining the phrase is that ‘power’ or strength is being wished upon the person’s arm (elbow), enabling them to continue performing a task or achieving their goals.

 “More power to you!” could be regarded as a modern variety of the expression “more power to your elbow.”