The idiom ‘beat a dead horse' means ‘to bring up a previously settled issue'. This video explains the meaning of the idiom 'beat a dead horse' in English. We explain how to use it with some easy examples for Social and Business English.
To beat a dead horse, also said as to flog a dead horse, basically refers to a wasted effort. When a conversation or topic has been exhausted and there’s no need to stretch it out any longer, mainly because an agreement could not be reached on an issue, or if the point has been thoroughly made, that is beating a dead horse. The conversation (horse) needs no more attention (beating). This idiom is also used when someone is wasting their energy attempting something that can’t be done.
Further Examples:
There’s no point asking for a raise anymore. I’m beating a dead horse as my boss just doesn’t care.
You’re beating a dead horse with your complaining. I get it, okay!