That ship has sailed: Learn what the means through example!

What does “That ship has sailed” mean?

"That ship has sailed" means that the opportunity has already passed or it is too late to do something.

What context can I use the in?

Example

I wanted to invest in that company, but that ship has sailed.

Example

I should have asked her out when I had the chance, but that ship has sailed now.

Example

I wanted to apply for that job, but that ship has sailed and they've already hired someone

Is “That ship has sailed” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“That ship has sailed” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.

How would I use “That ship has sailed” effectively in context?

You can use "That ship has sailed" to express that an opportunity or chance has already passed and it is now too late to do something. For example, if a friend suggests investing in a company that has already gone bankrupt, you might say, 'I wanted to invest in that company, but that ship has sailed.'

• 1. Missed Opportunity

  I should have asked her out when I had the chance, but that ship has sailed now.

• 2. Job Application

  I wanted to apply for that job, but that ship has sailed and they've already hired someone.

• 3. Regret

  I should have bought that concert ticket earlier, but that ship has sailed and it's sold out now.

Similar phrases to “That ship has sailed”:

Missed the boat

To have missed an opportunity

Example

I wanted to invest in that company, but I missed the boat.

Too little, too late

When an action or effort is insufficient or ineffective because it was done after the opportunity to make a difference has passed

Example

He apologized for his behavior, but it was too little, too late.

Closed door

An opportunity or possibility that is no longer available

Example

She wanted to join the team, but it was a closed door.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “That ship has sailed” come from?

The origin of the phrase "That ship has sailed" is unknown.

Is “That ship has sailed” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "That ship has sailed" is a common expression in everyday conversation. It is often used to convey the idea that an opportunity has passed and it is too late to take advantage of it.

What tone does “That ship has sailed” have?

"That ship has sailed" conveys a tone of resignation or acceptance. It is used to acknowledge that a chance or opportunity has been missed and there is no point in dwelling on it.

Can “That ship has sailed” be used in informal and formal settings?

Yes, "That ship has sailed" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a versatile expression that can be used in various contexts to convey the idea of missed opportunities. You can use it in conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations, meetings, or professional correspondence.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'I wanted to apply for that job, but that ship has sailed.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Well, "that ship has sailed"!' to express resignation.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

• opportunity has passed
• it's too late
• missed the chance
• gone with the wind
• lost opportunity

Antonyms

• opportunity knocks
• still possible
• not too late
• open door
• chance remains