Water Under the Bridge — Meaning, Usage & Examples

What it means...

Something that happened in the past and is no longer worth worrying about.

When you call something water under the bridge, the issue has passed and there's no point going back.

It's often used to end old arguments or let go of a grudge.

Use it when…

When two people decide to forgive each other and move on after a conflict
When someone brings up an old mistake and you want to move past it
When a team decides not to dwell on a past failure and focus on what's next

Don’t confuse with...

"Let Bygones Be Bygones"

—

Forgive past conflicts and move on, focused on interpersonal forgiveness

"Bury the Hatchet"

—

Actively make peace with someone after a conflict or disagreement

"Water Under the Bridge"

—

Something from the past that no longer matters or needs discussion

Where you’ll hear it

You’ll hear the "Water Under the Bridge" idiom in real life — at work, in relationships, or in the media.

Work & Business

Office Conversations

The two colleagues decided their old disagreement was water under the bridge and focused on the new project together.

Relationships & Social Life

Conflict / Arguments

After years apart, they met again and agreed the past was water under the bridge.

Media & Everyday Life

Interviews

The former rivals shook hands at the press conference and called their feud water under the bridge.

‹›

Use it like this

Here’s how to use "Water Under the Bridge" idiom naturally in real conversations, with real examples.

Work & Business

Talking to Colleague

Colleague

I'm still bothered by what happened during the last campaign.

You

Let it go — that's water under the bridge. We need to focus on what's ahead.

Relationships

Resolving Issues

Partner

Are we ever going to talk about what happened last year?

You

I think it's water under the bridge. I'd rather move forward than go back there.

Everyday Conversations

Small Talk

Friend

Remember that huge fight we had back in school?

You

That's water under the bridge. We were kids — it doesn't matter anymore.

‹›

Last updated:

October 4, 2026

Become an Insider

Get exclusive invitations to try our new English online courses FOR FREE.

Enjoy special discounts and unique offers for club members only!

Become an Insider

Tell us a bit about you to unlock more relevant content and insider perks.

Where do you want to improve your English?*

Helps us tailor content to you.

Select an option

Where are you based? (optional)

Select country

What's your native language? (optional)

Select language

First Name (optional)

I consent to theidiomdaily.com collecting and storing my data for the purpose of sending newsletters, updates, and promotional content. I understand that I can unsubscribe at any time by using the link provided in the emails. By checking this box, I agree to the Privacy Policy.

You’re in! Welcome to
the Insider Club.

Oops! Something went wrong. Please try again.

Unsubscribe
anytime.

Trusted by

1M+

English learners &
teachers worldwide