🧠 Fun English Expression: “What’s done is done”
Ever heard someone say, “What’s done is done,” and wondered what they meant or when to use it?
This expression is often used to reflect on past actions or mistakes, and it’s a great way to help someone move forward. Let’s break it down!
What does “What’s done is done” mean?
This phrase means:
👉 “There’s nothing we can do to change the past.”
👉 “What’s happened, happened, and we should accept it.”
👉 “We can’t undo what’s already been done, so let’s move forward.”
It’s used to express acceptance of a past event or decision, especially when there’s no way to change or fix it. It encourages focusing on the present and future, rather than dwelling on what’s already happened.
When do we use it?
You can use this phrase when:
- Someone is upset or regretful about something that can’t be changed.
- You want to remind someone (or yourself) to stop dwelling on past mistakes.
- You’re trying to help someone accept a decision or action that can’t be undone.
❗Just remember: This phrase can sound a little dismissive, so be mindful of your tone. It’s meant to encourage acceptance, not to minimize someone’s feelings.
Example Sentences
✅ Example 1:
A: “I made a huge mistake at work today.”
B: “Don’t worry about it. What’s done is done. Let’s just focus on fixing it.”
👉 Here, “What’s done is done” helps the person let go of their mistake and focus on the future.
✅ Example 2:
A: “I should have studied harder for that exam.”
B: “What’s done is done. You can’t change it now, but you can do better next time.”
👉 This shows reassurance and the encouragement to move on from past regret.
Final Thoughts
“What’s done is done” is a great phrase to help yourself or others accept the past and focus on the present and future. It’s about moving forward, even when things didn’t go as planned.
