English Idioms
Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms
Get over it
Meaning
The idiom "get over it" means to stop feeling upset or sad about something that has happened or stop being angry or frustrated about a situation. It suggests that the person should move on from their emotions and focus on the present or future. The literal meaning of the phrase is to physically overcome a physical obstacle, but in this context, it is used metaphorically to refer to emotional or mental challenges.
Usage
- After losing the game, John's teammates told him to get over it and focus on the next match.
- My parents told me to get over my fear of public speaking and give it a try.
- When I found out that I had failed the exam, my friend encouraged me to get over it and keep trying.
- After breaking up with her boyfriend, Sarah felt angry and hurt, but her friends told her to get over it and move on.
- When I was feeling homesick during my first year of college, my roommate reminded me to get over it and make the most out of my time there. The usage of this idiom can vary depending on the context. It can be used in a friendly or supportive manner, but it can also come across as dismissive or insensitive if not used correctly.
Roots and History
The origin of this idiom is uncertain, but it has been used since at least the 17th century. The earliest known use of the phrase was in the book "A Collection of English Proverbs" published in 1670. It was used to refer to overcoming a physical obstacle, but its figurative meaning began to emerge in the 20th century. In contemporary language, the idiom is often used in a casual or informal setting and has become a common expression used to encourage someone to move on from a difficult situation.
Synonyms in English
- Get over it
- Move on
- Let it go
- Forget about it
- Get past it
Synonyms in other languages
- Spanish - Olvidarlo (forgetting)
- French - Oblier (forgetting)
- German - Vergessen (forgetting)
- Italian - Dimenticare (forgetting)
- Portuguese - Esquecer (forgetting)