let bygones be bygones
/lɛt ˈbaɪˌɡɑnz bi ˈbaɪˌɡɑnz/
Word Rarity
Very rare
Frequency: Zipf frequency 2.02 in modern English
33
Scrabble Score
19
Letters
3
Syllables
9
Unique Chars
Meaning
verb
To disregard or ignore a past difficulty in a relationship or an offence (when dealing with another individual).
Intransitive verb
Example Sentences
- ""Never mind, I'll give you a hundred dollars for it," said the king; "you did me out of horse and saddle the other day, and the bridle too, but I'll let bygones be bygones, if I get the pot.""
- "To intrude as little of his personality as possible upon a gay event with which that personality could show nothing in keeping, he decided not to make his appearance till evening—when stiffness would have worn off, and a gentle wish to let bygones be bygones would exercise its say in all hearts."
- "You'll find, when you come back, I promise you, Kit, that everyone is willing to let bygones be bygones, and that you can make a fresh start."
- "But I ain't got no quarrel witcha. Just let bygones be bygones."
Etymology
Regional Pronunciation
- American English: /lɛt ˈbaɪˌɡɑnz bi ˈbaɪˌɡɑnz/
- British English: /lɛt ˈbaɪɡɒnz biː ˈbaɪɡɒnz/