Meaning and Origin of the Idiom

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 85 views

Understanding the Idiom "We'll Cross That Bridge When We Come to It"

Meaning and Origin of the Idiom

The idiom "we'll cross that bridge when we come to it" is a common English expression that means to deal with a problem or situation when it arises, rather than trying to anticipate or prevent it. This idiom is often used to convey a sense of caution or uncertainty about a particular issue, and to suggest that it is not worth worrying about until it becomes a pressing concern.

Breaking Down the Idiom

The phrase "cross that bridge" is a metaphor that refers to the act of navigating a difficult or uncertain situation. A "bridge" is a structure that connects two separate areas, and in this context, it represents a challenge or obstacle that needs to be overcome. The phrase "when we come to it" suggests that the situation will arise at some point in the future, and that it is not necessary to worry about it until then.

Analyzing the Options

Now that we have a better understanding of the idiom, let's analyze the options provided:

A. We need to start looking for connections: This option is not a direct interpretation of the idiom. While it may be related to the idea of finding solutions to problems, it does not capture the essence of the phrase.

B. We are not going to do that yet: This option is a more accurate interpretation of the idiom. It suggests that a particular action or decision is being delayed or put off until a later time, which is in line with the idea of "crossing the bridge" when it arises.

C. We are probably going in the wrong direction: This option is not a direct interpretation of the idiom. While it may be related to the idea of uncertainty or caution, it does not capture the essence of the phrase.

D. We will: This option is too vague and does not provide a clear interpretation of the idiom.

Conclusion

Based on our analysis, the most likely meaning of the idiom "we'll cross that bridge when we come to it" is option B: We are not going to do that yet. This option captures the essence of the phrase, which suggests that a particular action or decision is being delayed or put off until a later time.

Idiom in Context

The idiom "we'll cross that bridge when we come to it" is often used in a variety of contexts, including:

Business: When a company is considering a major decision, such as expanding into a new market or launching a new product, they may use this idiom to suggest that they will deal with the challenges of the decision when it arises.
Personal relationships: When two people are considering a major commitment, such as getting married or having children, they may use this idiom to suggest that they will deal with the challenges of the commitment when it arises.
Politics: When a politician is considering a major policy decision, they may use this idiom to suggest that they will deal with the challenges of the decision when it arises.

Idiom in Different Cultures

The idiom "we'll cross that bridge when we come to it" is a common English expression, but it is not unique to English culture. Similar idioms can be found in other cultures, including:

French: "Nous passerons l'éponge quand nous arriverons là" (We'll wipe the sponge when we get there)
Spanish: "Lo cruzaremos cuando lleguemos allí" (We'll cross it when we get there)
German: "Wir werden es überbrücken, wenn wir dort sind" (We'll bridge it when we're there)

Conclusion

In conclusion, the idiom "we'll cross that bridge when we come to it" is a common English expression that means to deal with a problem or situation when it arises, rather than trying to anticipate or prevent it. The most likely meaning of the idiom is option B: We are not going to do that yet. This idiom is often used in a variety of contexts, including business, personal relationships, and politics, and similar idioms can be found in other cultures.
Q&A: Understanding the Idiom "We'll Cross That Bridge When We Come to It"

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does the idiom "we'll cross that bridge when we come to it" mean?

A: The idiom "we'll cross that bridge when we come to it" means to deal with a problem or situation when it arises, rather than trying to anticipate or prevent it. It suggests that a particular action or decision is being delayed or put off until a later time.

Q: Where did the idiom "we'll cross that bridge when we come to it" come from?

A: The origin of the idiom "we'll cross that bridge when we come to it" is unclear, but it is believed to have originated in the mid-19th century in the United States. The phrase is thought to have been inspired by the idea of navigating a difficult or uncertain situation, much like crossing a bridge.

Q: How is the idiom "we'll cross that bridge when we come to it" used in everyday language?

A: The idiom "we'll cross that bridge when we come to it" is often used in a variety of contexts, including business, personal relationships, and politics. It is used to suggest that a particular action or decision is being delayed or put off until a later time.

Q: Can the idiom "we'll cross that bridge when we come to it" be used in formal writing or speaking?

A: Yes, the idiom "we'll cross that bridge when we come to it" can be used in formal writing or speaking, but it is generally considered to be a more informal expression. In formal contexts, it may be more suitable to use a more formal phrase, such as "we will address the issue when it arises."

Q: Are there any similar idioms to "we'll cross that bridge when we come to it"?

A: Yes, there are several similar idioms to "we'll cross that bridge when we come to it", including:

"We'll take it one step at a time"
"We'll deal with it when it happens"
"We'll cross that bridge when we get there"

Q: Can the idiom "we'll cross that bridge when we come to it" be used in different cultures?

A: Yes, the idiom "we'll cross that bridge when we come to it" can be used in different cultures, but it may be translated differently. For example, in French, the idiom is "Nous passerons l'éponge quand nous arriverons là" (We'll wipe the sponge when we get there), while in Spanish, it is "Lo cruzaremos cuando lleguemos allí" (We'll cross it when we get there).

Q: Is the idiom "we'll cross that bridge when we come to it" a common expression?

A: Yes, the idiom "we'll cross that bridge when we come to it" is a very common expression in English language. It is widely used in everyday language and is often understood by people of all ages and backgrounds.

Q: Can the idiom "we'll cross that bridge when we come to it" be used in a negative context?

A: Yes, the idiom "we'll cross that bridge when we come to it" can be used in a negative context, such as when someone is avoiding a problem or situation. For example, "We'll cross that bridge when we come to it" might be used to suggest that someone is not willing to deal with a difficult issue.

Q: Can the idiom "we'll cross that bridge when we come to it" be used in a positive context?

A: Yes, the idiom "we'll cross that bridge when we come to it" can be used in a positive context, such as when someone is feeling confident and prepared to deal with a challenge. For example, "We'll cross that bridge when we come to it" might be used to suggest that someone is ready to take on a difficult task.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the idiom "we'll cross that bridge when we come to it" is a common English expression that means to deal with a problem or situation when it arises, rather than trying to anticipate or prevent it. It is widely used in everyday language and can be used in a variety of contexts, including business, personal relationships, and politics.