IdiomDaily Life
English
Englishkiss something goodbye
Meaning: To accept that one has lost something or will never get it.
Example: “If you lend him money, you can kiss it goodbye.”
Origin: As if giving a farewell kiss to something that is leaving for good. The figurative use is common from the 20th century.
Equivalents in other languages
German: zu Grabe tragen Literally: To carry to the grave
French: Faire son deuil de quelque chose Literally: To make one's mourning for something
More English idioms
- a little bird told me I learned it from a secret source I won't name.
- put one's feet up To relax and rest.
- blow a gasket To lose one's temper completely.
- hearts and flowers Excessive sentimentality.
- born in a trunk Raised in a family of traveling performers and in the business from childhood.
- against all odds Despite great difficulty or opposition.
Explore another collection: Untranslatable Words
Words that capture a feeling or idea English needs a whole sentence for.
- Waldeinsamkeit The serene, faintly mystical feeling of being alone in the woods, at peace with nature.
- Meriggiare To take a quiet midday rest in a cool, shaded spot, escaping the fierce afternoon sun.
- Backpfeifengesicht A face that is just begging to be slapped — someone so smug you can't help the urge.
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