What does “Water over the dam” mean?
"Water over the dam" means that something has already happened and cannot be changed.
What context can I use the in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
Example
There's no use worrying about it now, it's water over the dam.
There's no use worrying about it now, it's water over the dam.
Example
I made a mistake, but it's water over the dam at this point.
I made a mistake, but it's water over the dam at this point.
Example
We can't dwell on the past, it's water over the dam
We can't dwell on the past, it's water over the dam
Is “Water over the dam” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Water over the dam” 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 over the dam” effectively in context?
You can use "Water over the dam" to refer to something that has already happened and cannot be changed. It emphasizes the idea that there is no point in dwelling on the past or worrying about things that are beyond your control. For example, if someone is upset about a mistake they made, you might say, 'Don't worry about it, it's water over the dam now.'
- 1Regret
He regretted not taking the job offer, but he knew it was water over the dam.
He regretted not taking the job offer, but he knew it was water over the dam.
- 2Acceptance
She had to accept that her relationship was over and that it was water over the dam.
She had to accept that her relationship was over and that it was water over the dam.
- 3Moving on
After a breakup, she realized she needed to let go of the past and consider it water over the dam.
After a breakup, she realized she needed to let go of the past and consider it water over the dam.
Similar phrases to “Water over the dam”:
Yesterday's news
Referring to something that is no longer relevant or important
Example
Don't worry about it, it's yesterday's news.
Don't worry about it, it's yesterday's news.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Water over the dam” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Water over the dam" is unknown.
Is “Water over the dam” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Water over the dam" is a common expression in everyday conversation. People often use it to acknowledge that something has already happened and cannot be changed, encouraging others to move on and focus on the present or future.
What tone does “Water over the dam” have?
"Water over the dam" conveys a tone of acceptance and letting go. It's often used to provide reassurance or perspective, reminding someone that there is no use in dwelling on the past.
Can “Water over the dam” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Water over the dam" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that conveys the idea of accepting the past and moving forward. You can use it in casual conversations with friends and family, as well as in more formal situations such as meetings or professional discussions.
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, 'There's no use worrying about it now, it's water over the dam.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Water over the dam!' to imply acceptance of a situation.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
Antonyms
- changeable
- modifiable
- current issue
- ongoing matter
- future possibility
