noun, noun or participle which takes 'suru', intransitive verb
standing on tiptoe and stretching; stretching oneself taller
Physical action of rising onto the balls of the feet and extending the body upward, often to reach something or appear taller.
棚の上の本を取ろうと背伸びした。
I stood on tiptoe and stretched to reach the book on the top shelf.
写真を撮るとき、みんな背
When taking the photo, everyone stretched up to look taller.
noun, noun or participle which takes 'suru', intransitive verb
overreaching oneself; trying beyond one's ability; pushing too hard
Metaphorical use: attempting something beyond one's current capacity, often with a nuance of straining or overextending.
まだ初心者なのに上級者向けのコースに挑戦するのは背伸びしすぎだ。
You're still a beginner, so trying the advanced course is overreaching.
背伸びせずに、自分のペースで勉強するのが大切だ。
It's important to study at your own pace without overstretching yourself.