long since: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘long since’ mean?
The idiom long since means something that happened or existed in the distant past and is not relevant or important anymore.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "out the window" means something is no longer relevant or disregarded completely, often due to a change in circumstances or plans.
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The idiom "out of date" means something or someone that is no longer current, modern, or in fashion.
The idiom "out of sight, out of mind" means that when something or someone is not visible or present, people tend to forget about it or them.
The idiom "once in a while" means occasionally or infrequently.
Once in a while is an idiomatic expression that means occasionally or infrequently. It conveys the idea of an irregular occurrence or a deviation from a usual pattern.
The idiom "once and for all" means to do something finally or decisively, resolving a situation or completing a task definitively.
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The idiom "once again" is a commonly used phrase in the English language that indicates a repetition or recurrence of an action or event. It is recognized and understood by English speakers across different regions and cultures.
The idiom "old saw" refers to a well-known saying or piece of advice that has been repeated many times. It can also describe a cliché or a trite expression.
An old saw is a well-known and often repeated saying or proverb. It has been used in English language for many centuries. The term "old saw" has a negative connotation, suggesting that the saying is outdated or no longer relevant.
The idiom *old hat* means something that is old-fashioned, outdated, or no longer interesting or impressive. It refers to a hat that is no longer trendy or fashionable, suggesting that something has become clichéd or overused.
Ancient Origins Revealed!
The idiom "long since" refers to something that happened or existed a long time ago and is no longer relevant or in existence. It emphasizes the passage of time and the distance between the present moment and a past event or state. The origin and history of this idiom, however, are unknown.
The idiom "long since" is widely used in spoken and written English, especially in informal contexts. It can be found in literature, such as novels, poetry, and songs, where it adds a nostalgic touch or highlights significant changes over time.
One interpretation of this idiom is that it suggests irreversibility. It implies a past event or situation that has become firmly anchored in the past and cannot be undone. It conveys finality and permanence, showing the inexorable passage of time and the irreversible nature of certain events.
Furthermore, "long since" can also reflect on fading memories of the past. As time goes by, our memories of people, places, and experiences become increasingly distant and hazy. This invokes a bittersweet feeling and underscores the transitory nature of human existence.
The idiom "long since" encompasses the passage of time and the irreversibility of certain events or situations. Its exact origin is unknown, but its usage has become ingrained in the English language, evoking nostalgia, finality, and fading memories. It reminds us of the ever-changing nature of life and the enduring impact of the past on our present.
The idiom "long since" is related to the phrase "ancient history." This idiom refers to something that happened so long ago that it is no longer relevant or important. It emphasizes the significant amount of time that has passed since the event or situation took place. The idiom "ancient history" serves as a way to dismiss or downplay the significance of past events that are no longer of importance.
Similarly, the phrase "many moons ago" is related to the idiom "long since." It is used to describe something that happened a long time ago. The phrase "many moons" refers to the cycles of the moon, symbolizing the passage of time. By using this idiom, speakers evoke a sense of nostalgia or highlight the considerable amount of time that has elapsed since the event in question.
The idiom "of late" is also related to "long since." It is used to refer to something that has happened or been the case recently. "Of late" implies that the event or situation took place not too long ago, but still emphasizes the passage of time. This idiom allows speakers to discuss recent events while acknowledging the ever-changing nature of time.
Similarly, the phrase "so far" relates to the idiom "long since." It is often used to reflect on the progress or duration of something up until the present moment. "So far" indicates that the event or situation has taken place over a considerable period of time, but reminds us that there is still more to come. This idiom allows speakers to reflect on the past while keeping in mind the potential for future developments.
Finally, the idiom "long in the tooth" is related to "long since." It is used to describe someone who is old or aging. The phrase "long in the tooth" alludes to the fact that as we age, our teeth naturally become more worn down and longer. By using this idiom, speakers can playfully refer to someone's age while acknowledging the passage of time and the physical changes that come with it.
The idiom "long since" expresses the passage of time and the irreversibility of certain events or situations. Its exact origin is uncertain, but it is widely used in both spoken and written English. It allows individuals to evoke nostalgia, emphasize finality, and reflect on fading memories. In addition, this idiom is related to other idioms such as "ancient history," "many moons ago," "of late," "so far," and "long in the tooth," which each contribute their own nuances to the concept of time and the changes it brings.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "long since" can be used in a sentence:
- She had long since given up on finding her missing wallet.
- The old house had long since been abandoned by its owners.
- He had long since forgotten about the argument they had years ago.
More "Time" idioms
