water under the bridge

Thân thiện

The old argument is now just water under the bridge.

Definition

Idiom (Noun Phrase): - Past events that are no longer important or should be forgiven: This idiom refers to problems or disagreements from the past that are now considered over and done with, and therefore should not affect the present or future. It suggests that these past events, like water that has already flowed under a bridge, are gone and cannot be changed.

Usage

This idiom is used to indicate that a past issue, mistake, or conflict is finished and should be forgotten. It is often used to encourage moving forward without dwelling on the past.

Examples

• (Our past argument is no longer relevant.)
• (We should forgive the old mistakes.)
• (We should forget the past disagreement.)

Advanced Usage

• Used with "be" or "consider something": The phrase is commonly used with forms of the verb "to be" (is, was, are) or verbs like "consider" or "regard."
  • Our old rivalry is water under the bridge.
  • I consider that chapter of my life water under the bridge.

Variants and Related Words

• Let bygones be bygones: (Idiom) A similar expression meaning to forgive and forget past quarrels.
• A thing of the past: (Phrase) Something that no longer exists or happens.

Synonyms

• Forgiven and forgotten
• In the past
• Over and done with

Related Idioms

• Bury the hatchet: To make peace, to end a quarrel.
  • After years of feuding, they finally decided to bury the hatchet.
• Turn the page: To move on from a past event.
  • It's time to turn the page and start anew.

Học thuật

Noun

1. past events to be put aside
   • let bygones be bygones

Từ đồng nghĩa

• bygone