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let bygones be bygones

/lɛt baɪˈɡoʊnz bi baɪˈɡoʊnz/
phrase★Intermediate◆idiom
◆ What It Really Means
To forgive past mistakes and move forward without holding grudges.
¶ Literal Meaning
To allow past events or actions to remain in the past without addressing them.
Literal Breakdown
letto allow+bygonespast events or actions+beto remain+bygonespast events or actions
◇ Mental Image
The phrase evokes the idea of leaving past conflicts behind, like letting something drift away into the past.
◈ When to Use
Two coworkers who had a disagreement decide to let bygones be bygones and work together effectively.
◉ Cultural Note
This idiom reflects the cultural value of forgiveness and moving forward in relationships, both personal and professional.
informal

To forgive and forget past mistakes or conflicts, choosing to move forward without holding grudges.

The two friends had a falling out years ago, but they let bygones be bygones and reconnected.

They chose to forgive their past disagreement and reconnect as friends.

In business, sometimes you have to let bygones be bygones to maintain a productive relationship.

Forgiving past conflicts can help sustain a positive business partnership.

💡

This idiom emphasizes reconciliation and letting go of past issues to improve current relationships.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Related Phrases

bury the hatchetidiom
to end a conflict or disagreement by making peace
forgive and forgetidiom
to pardon someone for past mistakes and choose not to remember them

💡Pro Tip

Usage Context

Use this phrase when you want to encourage someone to let go of past conflicts and focus on the present or future.

⚡Gold Rule

Reconciliation

This idiom is used to promote forgiveness and moving forward, not to dismiss or ignore serious issues.

📖Word Origin

The phrase originates from the 19th century, with 'bygones' referring to past events or actions. The idiom suggests that past issues should be left in the past to avoid ongoing conflict.

📝Usage Notes

This phrase is commonly used in informal and formal contexts to encourage reconciliation and forgiveness. It is often used when resolving conflicts or moving forward after disagreements.

English Dictionary

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