cross the bridge

USAGE SUMMARY

"cross the bridge" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used to refer to crossing a literal bridge or a metaphorical bridge. For example, "They must cross the bridge of understanding before they can come together on the issue."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Then cross the bridge to Back Bay.

The New York Times

Can they cross the bridge?

The New York Times - Sports

Would they cross the bridge?

The New York Times

Koecher was eager to cross the bridge.

The Guardian

So, cross the bridge of cutting your carbon.

The Guardian

All I want to do is to cross the bridge.

The New York Times

Today, I cross the bridge slowly enough to savor it.

The New York Times - Travel

Jumbo did cross the bridge in a grand parade a year later.

The New York Times - Arts

I am always looking for Tralala whenever I cross the bridge.

The New York Times

To reach Solera, cross the bridge just north of the Irvington train station.

The New York Times

So we don't have to cross the bridge to buy the products".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "cross the bridge" metaphorically, ensure the context clearly establishes the obstacle or challenge being addressed. For instance, clarify what the "bridge" represents to maintain clarity and impact.

Common error

Avoid ambiguous sentences where it's unclear whether you're talking about a physical bridge or a metaphorical one. Provide enough context to avoid confusion. For example, avoid saying just "We'll cross the bridge later" if the literal action of crossing a bridge is not previously mentioned.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cross the bridge" primarily functions as a verb phrase, often serving as the predicate in a sentence. Ludwig AI shows that it can be used literally to describe the act of traversing a physical bridge or metaphorically to represent dealing with a challenge or obstacle.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Wiki

14%

Science

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "cross the bridge" is a versatile expression that can be used both literally and figuratively. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound and widely used, particularly in News & Media. When used metaphorically, it advises addressing problems only when they arise. Related phrases include "go over the bridge" or "traverse the bridge". When using this phrase, it's important to ensure the context clarifies whether you're referring to a physical bridge or a metaphorical challenge.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

go over the bridge

Replaces "cross" with "go over", focusing on the action of passing above the bridge structure.

pass across the bridge

Emphasizes the act of moving from one side of the bridge to the other.

traverse the bridge

A more formal synonym for "cross", implying a deliberate journey.

get across the bridge

Focuses on the completion of crossing, reaching the other side.

make it across the bridge

Similar to "get across", but adds an element of effort or challenge.

walk across the bridge

Specifies the mode of transport as walking.

drive over the bridge

Specifies the mode of transport as driving.

span the bridge

Focuses on the bridge itself and its function of connecting two points.

overcome the obstacle

Uses a general term for an obstacle, applicable when "bridge" is metaphorical.

deal with the problem when it arises

Similar to "cross that bridge when we come to it", addressing issues only when necessary.

FAQs

How can I use "cross the bridge" in a sentence?

You can use "cross the bridge" literally, referring to physically traversing a bridge, as in, "We need to "go over the bridge" to get to the other side." It can also be used metaphorically to mean dealing with a problem when it arises, such as, "We'll "deal with it when the time comes"."

What does it mean to "cross the bridge when you come to it"?

This idiom means to deal with a problem or situation only when it actually arises, rather than worrying about it in advance. It suggests focusing on the present and not anticipating future difficulties. A similar phrase is "deal with the problem when it arises".

What are some alternatives to the literal meaning of "cross the bridge"?

For the literal sense, you could say "traverse the bridge", "go over the bridge", or "pass across the bridge". These all describe the physical action of moving across a bridge.

Is it always necessary to specify the type of bridge when using the phrase "cross the bridge"?

No, it is not always necessary. Whether you need to specify depends on the context. If the specific type of bridge is relevant to the story or situation, then include that information. Otherwise, "cross the bridge" is sufficient.