thing of the past
Filed under T
In a sentence
- With the rise of smartphones, traditional landlines have become a *thing of the past*.
- Thanks to advancements in technology, handwritten letters are now considered a *thing of the past*.
- Since the invention of email, sending physical mail has become a *thing of the past*.
Where it comes from and how it is used
The idiom "thing of the past" is frequently used to describe something that is no longer relevant or common in the present time. It refers to outdated ideas, practices, or technologies that have been replaced by newer and more advanced alternatives. This idiomatic expression implies that the mentioned thing is no longer part of the present or will soon become irrelevant in the near future.
The origin or etymology of the idiom "thing of the past" is not explicitly known. However, it can be inferred that the idiom draws on the concept of time and the idea that as time progresses, things change and evolve. The idiom suggests that the mentioned thing belongs to a previous era or time period and is now considered outdated.
In contemporary usage, the idiom "thing of the past" is often used nostalgically or reflectively. It can evoke a sense of longing or nostalgia for the past while acknowledging the inevitability and necessity of change. The idiom serves as a reminder of the transient nature of time and the continuous cycle of advancement and obsolescence.
Neighbouring idioms
- out of date
- ancient historyLaw, power & politics
- of lateTime & pace
- back in the day
- used toTime & pace
- days of yoreLaw, power & politics
- live in the past
- behind its time
Know an earlier use or a better origin story?Tell us.