put it behind you

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "put it behind you" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to encourage someone to move on from a past event or experience, especially if it was negative or troubling. Example: "After the difficult breakup, she decided it was time to put it behind her and focus on her future."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"You've got to put it behind you".

The New York Times - Sports

Just put it behind you and move on".

The New York Times - Sports

If that's the case, try to put it behind you.

Harvard Business Review

You're never allowed to put it behind you".

The New York Times - Style

Embarrassing, but put it behind you and move on.

The Guardian - Sport

It is tough to put it behind you.

The New York Times - Sports

Mr. Kaminski nodded: "You've got to put it behind you.

The New York Times

"I keep telling people you can't put it behind you.

The Guardian

"Once it's done," she said, "put it behind you and go on with your life".

The New York Times

That was a strong belief in the early era of psychiatry: Put it behind you.

The New Yorker

We've talked about it, but again, you have to put it behind you.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use “put it behind you” to encourage resilience and a forward-looking perspective after setbacks or disappointments. It's particularly effective when advising someone to not dwell on past mistakes or negative experiences.

Common error

Avoid using “put it behind you” when the situation requires addressing unresolved issues or learning from past experiences. This phrase is best suited for situations where moving on is the most constructive approach, not when reflection or resolution is needed.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "put it behind you" functions as an idiomatic expression used to advise or encourage someone to disregard or forget about something, typically a negative experience, mistake, or setback. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is considered grammatically correct and suitable for use in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Wiki

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "put it behind you" is a grammatically correct and very common idiomatic expression used to encourage someone to move on from a negative experience. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is widely accepted and applicable in various contexts. It is most frequently found in news and media sources, but it also appears in scientific and informal communications. Alternatives include "move on" or "let it go". While it's a helpful phrase for promoting resilience, it should be used cautiously when addressing situations that require reflection or resolution rather than simple dismissal.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

move on

A more general term for progressing past something; lacks the specific connotation of overcoming negativity.

let it go

Focuses on releasing emotional attachment to a past event, often implying acceptance.

forget about it

Suggests a complete dismissal of the past event, sometimes implying a lack of importance.

get over it

Emphasizes overcoming emotional distress caused by a past event, suggesting resilience.

leave it in the past

Highlights the act of consigning something to a completed time, focusing on non-recurrence.

draw a line under it

Implies a definitive end and a conscious decision to start afresh.

turn the page

Metaphorically suggests starting a new chapter, moving forward with a fresh perspective.

rise above it

Emphasizes triumphing over a difficult situation, highlighting personal growth.

wash your hands of it

Implies disassociating oneself from a problem or responsibility, often suggesting relief.

bury the hatchet

Specifically refers to resolving a conflict and restoring friendly relations.

FAQs

How can I use "put it behind you" in a sentence?

You can use "put it behind you" to encourage someone to move on from a negative experience. For example: "It was a tough loss, but you need to "put it behind you" and focus on the next game."

What can I say instead of "put it behind you"?

Alternatives to "put it behind you" include "move on", "let it go", or "forget about it", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

When is it appropriate to tell someone to "put it behind you"?

It's appropriate to use "put it behind you" when someone is dwelling on a past event that they cannot change and it's hindering their progress or well-being. However, be mindful of the context, as sometimes it's more important to acknowledge and process feelings before moving on.

Is "put it behind you" the same as "learn from it"?

No, "put it behind you" implies moving on from something, while "learn from it" suggests taking a lesson from the experience. They are different approaches to dealing with the past. One focuses on closure, and the other on growth.