Vale of years

Meaning

The idiom "vale of years" refers to a long period or duration of time, often used in a negative context to describe an enduring experience or situation that is difficult or unpleasant. The phrase comes from the name of a famous valley in England, known for its stunning landscapes and natural beauty. In contemporary language, the idiom is used metaphorically to describe any situation that lasts for a long time and is difficult or unpleasant.

Usage

• After years of working hard to build his business, he finally achieved success.
• The patient's condition improved after months in the hospital, but the pain lingered for years.
• She was stuck in a dead-end job for over a decade before finally finding her dream career.
• Despite their differences, the two friends remained close and loyal to each other throughout the years.
• The company's profits have been declining for several years, and many employees are fearing layoffs. The usage of this idiom can vary depending on the context. It can be used in positive or negative contexts depending on the situation. For instance, if someone has achieved success after working hard for a long time, they may say "it was worth the wait." However, if someone is struggling with a difficult situation that seems to go on forever, they may say "this is a vale of years."

Roots and History

The idiom "vale of years" has its roots in English literature. It originated from a poem by William Shakespeare called "Twelfth Night," where the character Malvolio says, "I am not such a fool to be driven from my course with this trifle." In this context, "trifle" refers to something insignificant or inconsequential. Over time, the phrase evolved to mean "a long period of time" and eventually took on its current meaning as an idiom for something that lasts a long time and is difficult or unpleasant.

Synonyms in English

• Aeons
• Eternity
• An eternity
• Millennia
• Centuries

Synonyms in other languages

• Les époques de notre histoire (French) - This means "the eras of our history."
• La durée (French) - This means "the duration" or "the time span."
• Die Zeit (German) - This means "time" or "the period."
• La durata (Italian) - This means "duration" or "length of time."
• El tiempo pasado (Spanish) - This means "the time passed" or "the past time."

Similar Idioms

• bucket list

• turn over a new leaf

• it’s a small world