English 
español 
française 
italiano 
deutsche 
日本語 
polski 
česky 
svenska 
Türkçe 
Nederlands 
Explaining “Let bygones be bygones”
Lloyd Cooper 01/10/2024, 17:37English.me team member
What does it mean?
The phrase "Let bygones be bygones" means to forget past offenses or grievances and move on without holding a grudge.
Tone
The tone of this phrase is forgiving and conciliatory, encouraging people to overlook past issues for the sake of reconciliation or moving forward.
Origin
The phrase dates back to the late 16th century and comes from the idea that past events should be left in the past ('bygones" meaning things that have gone by).
Examples of usage
- After their argument, they decided to let bygones be bygones and patched up their friendship.
- In order to move on, we need to let bygones be bygones and focus on the future.
Recommended posts in 
Phrases
Horses for courses
The phrase "horses for courses" means that what is suitable ... Learn more →
Curiosity killed the cat
The phrase "Curiosity killed the cat" is a proverb used ... Learn more →
It goes without saying
The phrase "It goes without saying" is used to indicate ... Learn more →
Misery loves company
The phrase "Misery loves company" means that people who are ... Learn more →