water under the bridge: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘water under the bridge’ mean?
The idiom "water under the bridge" means that something has happened in the past and is no longer important or relevant in the present.
Idiom Explorer
"Water over the dam" is an idiom that means something has happened in the past and cannot be changed or undone. It refers to the idea that once water flows over a dam, it cannot be retrieved or stopped.
The idiom "under the rug" means to hide or ignore something, usually a problem or issue, rather than dealing with it directly or openly.
The idiom "thing of the past" refers to something that is no longer relevant or in use, indicating that it belongs to a previous time or era.
The idiom "take on water" means to accumulate problems or difficulties, often referring to a situation that is deteriorating or becoming unsustainable.
The idiom "put something behind one" means to forget about something that has happened in the past and move on, leaving it behind emotionally and mentally.
The idiom "pass the river" refers to successfully overcoming a difficult or challenging situation, often with perseverance or determination, as if crossing a river. It implies a sense of accomplishment or achievement despite obstacles.
The idiom "out the window" means something is no longer relevant or disregarded completely, often due to a change in circumstances or plans.
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 "never mind" is used to dismiss or disregard something that has been said or done, indicating that it is not important or relevant.
The idiom "move on" means to leave a situation or past event behind and continue with one's life or focus on something else.
Unveiling the Secrets
Water under the bridge is an English idiom that suggests that an issue or event is a thing of the past and no longer has any significance. The phrase is commonly used to express the idea that something has happened and should be let go or forgotten.
This idiom is believed to have originated from the concept of a bridge over a body of water. When something falls into the water, like a leaf or a piece of debris, it is carried away by the current and becomes part of the water, unable to be retrieved. Similarly, when something happens and is subsequently referred to as "water under the bridge," it implies that it is beyond reach and cannot be changed.
The idiom "water under the bridge" has been in use for centuries, dating back to at least the 1800s. It has been widely used in both spoken and written English, and its meaning is generally understood. The metaphorical nature of the idiom allows for its versatility in various contexts.
Like water over the dam, the idiom "water under the bridge" suggests moving on from a negative experience or situation. It implies that dwelling on the past is fruitless and that it is more productive to focus on the present or the future. By using this idiom, speakers and writers convey that they have let go of past grievances or events and are ready to move forward.
However, it is important to note that the connotation of this idiom is not always positive. While it can signify forgiveness or maturity, it can also indicate that a matter has been dismissed or regarded with indifference. In some cases, using this idiom may downplay the significance of an event or trivialize a person's feelings or experiences.
like water off a duck's back, the idiom "water under the bridge" resonates with individuals because it encapsulates the human tendency to reminisce or reflect on the past while acknowledging that dwelling on it serves no purpose. It offers a concise and vivid metaphor that allows communicators to convey the concept of letting go and moving forward.
This idiom, along with "water over the dam," has become an integral part of the English language. It emphasizes the importance of leaving the past behind and focusing on the present or future. While it can convey forgiveness and maturity, it can also diminish the significance of events or emotions. These idioms serve as a reminder to embrace change and accept that some things are beyond our control, ultimately highlighting the complexity and depth of the human experience.
cross that bridge when one comes to it is yet another idiom related to "water under the bridge." This idiom suggests that one should not worry or plan for a problem or situation until it actually happens. It emphasizes the importance of taking things one step at a time and not getting ahead of oneself.
When using the idiom "water under the bridge," it is important to consider the context and the audience. While it can be a useful and powerful phrase, it is essential to be mindful of how it may be perceived. By following AP style and the rules provided, you can ensure that your use of the idiom is clear, concise, and effective.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "water under the bridge" can be used in a sentence:
- The past conflict is now water under the bridge, and we are moving forward with a fresh start.
- I regret some of the mistakes I made in the past, but now they're just water under the bridge.
- She decided to let go of her grudges and forgive him, considering their disagreements as water under the bridge.
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