Question

Identify the meaning of the idioms or phrases given in capitals in the sentence:
It will be wiser on our part to let the BYGONES BE BYGONES.

• A. recollect the past
• B. worry about the past
• C. revive the past
• D. ignore the past

Hint:

Break the phrase down: "Bygones" = things that have "gone by". So, let things that have gone by stay gone by! In short, let it go and ignore what happened in the past.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Concept: The proverb and idiom "let bygones be bygones" is an ancient English expression dating back several centuries. The word "bygone" refers to something that has gone by, passed away, or happened in an earlier time. The phrase serves as an philosophical advice encouraging individuals to forgive past offenses, disregard previous disagreements, and move forward without holding grudges.

Detailed Explanation:

• Literally, the phrase translates to "let things that are past remain in the past".

• It is commonly invoked when two parties resolve an argument or when someone decides to stop harboring resentment over previous wrongdoings. "It will be wiser on our part to let the BYGONES BE BYGONES" implies that the smartest course of action is to stop dwelling on old conflicts, leave past mistakes behind, and essentially overlook or

ignore the past in order to build a better future.

Analysis of Options:

• Option (A) is incorrect because "recollecting the past" means remembering or dwelling on it, which is the exact opposite of what the idiom advises.

• Option (B) is incorrect because "worrying about the past" means feeling anxious about history, whereas the idiom promotes peace and letting go.

• Option (C) is incorrect because "reviving the past" means bringing old conflicts back to life, which contradicts the philosophy of letting things rest.

• Option (D) is correct because "ignore the past" accurately encapsulates the intent of moving on and not letting historical events affect the present.