expression

let bygones be bygones

to forget past conflicts

In Idioms & Sayings

In more detail

(idiom) to forget about past disagreements or mistakes and move forward without holding grudges

Examples

After their argument, they decided to let bygones be bygones and became friends again.

How to use let bygones be bygones

This idiom expresses a willingness to put aside past conflicts and focus on the future without lingering resentment. It is commonly used in reconciliation contexts, between friends, family members, or colleagues trying to resolve a dispute. The phrase carries a forgiving, conciliatory tone and suggests moving forward maturely.

Common phrases

decide to let bygones be bygones
agree to let bygones be bygones
willing to let bygones be bygones
let bygones be bygones and start fresh

Synonyms

water under the bridge · bury the hatchet · let sleeping dogs lie · move on · forgive and forget

Opposites

hold a grudge · rake up the past

A common mistake

Learners sometimes use 'let the bygones be bygones' with the extra article, which is grammatically incorrect; the correct form omits 'the'.

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