a closed chapter

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a closed chapter" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is usually used when referring to something that has come to an end, such as the closure of a business or the end of an era. For example, you could say "With the closure of the factory, it was the end of an era, and a closed chapter for the workers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

"It's a closed chapter," he said.

The New York Times

Promotion of SRI - Millet: Reopening a closed chapter.

Cornell University

Mr. Gundlach has called the belongings remnants of "a closed chapter in my life".

The New York Times

The 58 compositions on silk now represent a closed chapter in the artist's career.

The New York Times - Arts

Pakistan has sought to describe Mr. Khan's proliferation activities as a "closed chapter" in its history.

The New York Times

I try to console myself that what I have left behind is a closed chapter.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

And yet far from being a quaint, closed chapter of Americana, radio drama is alive and -- well, it's definitely alive.

The New York Times - Arts

— A lot has come down the pike since the summer of 2008, which for many Americans may already feel like the closed chapter of an old book.

The New York Times

Surrealism is regarded as a closed historical chapter.

The New York Times - Books

Thus the Swingline continues by architectural means the theme of the Modern's current show, "Open Ends," and its belief in the idea that the modern is not a closed historical chapter.

The New York Times - Arts

If nuclear armament is to be seen as a closed victorious chapter, the new leader must approach the final tasks in his grandfather's to-do list, as impossible as they may seem from an outsider's perspective: drastic economic growth and national reunification.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a closed chapter", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being concluded. For instance, specify the event, period, or relationship that has ended to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "a closed chapter" when referring to something that is merely paused or has the potential to resume. This phrase implies a definitive end, not a temporary cessation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a closed chapter" functions as a noun phrase that acts as a subject complement or object, describing something that has come to an end. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Academia

17%

Science

16%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a closed chapter" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe something that has come to an end. Ludwig AI confirms the validity of this phrase. It's prevalent in news and media, academic writing, and scientific contexts, indicating a neutral register. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying what is being concluded. Alternatives such as ""a thing of the past"" or ""water under the bridge"" can be used for variety. Be mindful not to use "a closed chapter" for situations that are merely paused rather than definitively over.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a thing of the past

This phrase directly indicates that something belongs to a previous time and is no longer relevant.

water under the bridge

This idiom suggests that a past event should be forgotten and not dwelled upon.

bygones be bygones

Similar to "water under the bridge", this encourages letting go of past grievances.

a concluded matter

This phrase emphasizes that a discussion or issue has reached its resolution.

case closed

This idiom signifies that an investigation or discussion is complete and there's nothing more to add.

an ended affair

This denotes the termination of a situation, relationship, or series of events.

the end of the line

This idiom indicates the termination or conclusion of something.

ancient history

This implies that something is so far in the past as to be irrelevant to the present.

a finished story

This suggests that a narrative or sequence of events has reached its conclusion.

an old story

Highlights that a situation is over and unlikely to change.

FAQs

How can I use "a closed chapter" in a sentence?

You can use "a closed chapter" to refer to something that has ended. For example, "For me, that relationship is "a closed chapter" and I'm moving on."

What can I say instead of "a closed chapter"?

Alternatives include "a thing of the past", "water under the bridge", or "bygones be bygones", depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "a closed chapter" in formal writing?

Yes, "a closed chapter" can be used in formal writing, but ensure it fits the tone and context. It's suitable when discussing completed events or phases in business, history, or personal narratives.

What's the difference between "a closed chapter" and "a difficult chapter"?

"A closed chapter" refers to something that has ended, while "a difficult chapter" refers to a challenging period that may or may not be over. The former emphasizes completion, while the latter highlights hardship.