What does “Water under the bridge” mean?

"Water under the bridge" means something that has happened in the past and cannot be changed or undone.

What context can I use the in?

Example

I know we had our differences, but let's just let water under the bridge.

Example

We used to be enemies, but now it's all water under the bridge.

Example

I made a mistake, but it's water under the bridge now

Is “Water under the bridge” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Water under the bridge” 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 “Water under the bridge” effectively in context?

You can use "Water under the Bridge" to refer to something that has happened in the past and cannot be changed or undone. It implies that the situation is no longer important or relevant. For example, if two friends had an argument but have since made up, you might say, 'I know we had our differences, but let's just let water under the bridge.'

1Reconciliation
We used to be enemies, but now it's all water under the bridge.
2Forgiveness
I made a mistake, but it's water under the bridge now.
3Moving on
She apologized for her behavior, and I decided to let it be water under the bridge.

Similar phrases to “Water under the bridge”:

Let bygones be bygones

To forget past conflicts or grievances and move on

Example

We had our disagreements, but let's just let bygones be bygones.

Forgive and forget

To pardon someone and not hold their past actions against them

Example

I've decided to forgive and forget what happened between us.

Turn the page

To move on from a difficult or negative situation

Example

It's time to turn the page and start fresh.

Close the chapter

To put an end to a particular phase or period of one's life

Example

I'm ready to close the chapter on that part of my life.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Water under the bridge” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Water under the Bridge" is unknown.

Is “Water under the bridge” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "Water under the Bridge" is a common expression in everyday conversation. People often use it to acknowledge that past events or conflicts are no longer important and should be forgotten or forgiven.

What tone does “Water under the bridge” have?

"Water under the Bridge" conveys a tone of acceptance and moving on. It suggests that the speaker is willing to let go of past grievances and focus on the present or future.

Can “Water under the bridge” be used in informal and formal settings?

Yes, "Water under the Bridge" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that conveys the idea of accepting the past and not dwelling on it. You can use it in conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as meetings or professional correspondence.

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

It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'Let's just let water under the bridge and move on.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Water under the bridge!' to imply that the past is irrelevant.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

forget about it
put it behind you
let it go
move on
leave it in the past

Antonyms

dwell on it
hold a grudge
harbor resentment
keep bringing it up
refuse to let go