Has-been

Meaning

The idiom "has-been" is used to refer to someone or something that was once popular, successful, or significant but has since declined in status or importance. It can also be used to describe someone or something that is no longer relevant or useful.

Usage

• John's band was once a big deal, but they've fallen out of favor and are now considered just a bunch of has-beens.
• The movie theater on Main Street has been closed for years, leaving its customers to search for new places to watch movies.
• The old restaurant in town used to be a hot spot, but it's now just a shell of its former self and a gathering place for locals.
• Sarah used to be one of the most successful businesswomen in the city, but her company has gone bankrupt, leaving her struggling to make ends meet.
• The sports stadium that hosted the World Series a few years ago is now mostly empty, with many of its original seats now a part of the park's landscaping.

Roots and History

The idiom "has-been" has been in use since the 18th century and has evolved over time to reflect changing cultural trends and social norms. In its early uses, it was often used to describe someone or something that had achieved a certain level of success but had since lost their status or importance. Over time, the idiom has come to be used more broadly to refer to anything that is no longer relevant or useful.

Synonyms in English

• Former glory
• Passé
• Outdated
• Obsolete
• Relegated

Synonyms in other languages

• Spanish: "Era" (was)
• French: "Passé" (passed, past)
• German: "Verfallen" (fallen, declined)
• Italian: "Storicamente" (historically)
• Japanese: "前世" (past life)

Similar Idioms

• head start

• honesty is the best policy

• get a life