out the window: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘out the window’ mean?
The idiom "out the window" means something is no longer relevant or disregarded completely, often due to a change in circumstances or plans.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "throw away" means to get rid of or discard something without considering its value or potential usefulness.
The idiom "outside world" refers to the world beyond a specific place or situation. It represents a realm that is different or separate from one's immediate surroundings. It is often used to emphasize the contrast between one's current situation and the larger world or society.
The idiom "out of touch" means to be unaware or uninformed about a particular topic or the current situation. It implies a lack of understanding or familiarity with something or someone.
The idiom "out of the way" means to have completed or resolved something and have it no longer in the path or in the way of progress or focus.
The idiom "out of the running" means to no longer be a candidate or contender in a competition or race.
The idiom "out of the picture" means to be excluded or no longer involved in a situation or plan.
The idiom "out of the picture" means being excluded or no longer involved in a situation or event. It implies that the person or thing is no longer a factor or of significance in a particular scenario.
The idiom "out of the loop" means someone is uninformed or lacks knowledge about a specific situation or topic.
The idiom "out of the loop" is commonly used in the United States. It means that someone is not informed or involved in a specific situation or activity. This implies that the person lacks awareness of recent developments or does not have access to important information or updates.
The idiom "out of the gate" means to start something quickly, without hesitation or delay.
The idiom "out of the chute" means to start or begin something quickly or immediately.
The idiom "out of the chute" is a relatively common expression in American English. It is typically used in the context of sports, particularly rodeo events, to describe something that happens quickly or immediately. The term "chute" refers to a narrow passage or enclosure that is used to contain livestock before they are released into the arena.
Lost Translations
The idiom "out of the picture" is closely related to the phrase "out the window." Both idioms convey the idea of something being disregarded or removed from consideration. While "out the window" implies that something has been abandoned or lost, "out of the picture" suggests that something or someone has been taken out of the equation entirely. This can refer to a person who is no longer involved or relevant to a situation, or it can describe a circumstance or factor that is no longer significant or influential.
Similarly, the idiom "out of the way" shares a common theme with "out the window." When something is described as "out of the way," it means that it has been removed or resolved and is no longer a hindrance or obstacle. This can apply to physical objects that have been moved or cleared, as well as to problems or challenges that have been addressed or overcome. Both idioms convey a sense of relief or satisfaction that an issue or concern has been dealt with and is no longer of concern.
"out of sight, out of mind" is another idiom that relates to the concept of something being disregarded or forgotten. While "out the window" implies a sudden disregard or abandonment, "out of sight, out of mind" suggests that if something is not visible or readily apparent, it is not given much thought or consideration. This idiom can apply to objects, people, or ideas that are no longer within one's immediate field of vision or awareness. It suggests that when something is not present or easily observable, it is easily forgotten or overlooked.
An additional related idiomatic phrase is "out of frame." This expression is often used in the context of photography or film to describe something or someone that is not included in the frame or shot. When something is "out of frame," it is intentionally excluded from view. This idiom can also be used metaphorically to indicate that an idea, concept, or piece of information is not included or considered in a particular context. It suggests that something or someone is not within the scope or focus of attention.
The idioms "out of the picture," "out of the way," "out of sight, out of mind," and "out of frame" all share a common theme with the idiom "out the window." They each convey the idea of something being disregarded, abandoned, or removed from consideration. While "out the window" emphasizes the sudden and complete disregard for something, the other idioms offer variations on this theme, highlighting different aspects of removal or exclusion.
Overall, the idiom "out the window" and its related idioms are useful expressions for describing situations where something is disregarded, abandoned, or removed from consideration. They can be used in a variety of contexts, from casual conversations to more formal settings. These idioms add color and nuance to our language, allowing us to express ideas and concepts in a concise and impactful way.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "out the window" can be used in a sentence:
- After months of careful planning, the sudden change in regulations threw all our previous strategies out the window.
- His promises to save money and invest wisely went out the window as soon as he received his first paycheck.
- The storm was so strong that it blew the fragile garden decorations out the window.
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