Close, lock, etc. the stable door after the horse has bolted

usgb
phrase

To try to prevent or rectify a problem after the damage has already been done.

Installing a new alarm system after the burglary is a bit like closing the stable door after the horse has bolted.
Visual representation of "close, lock, etc. the stable door after the horse has bolted" - To try to prevent or rectify a problem after the damage has already been done.

Often appears as...

  • trying to close
  • shut the stable door after the horse has bolted

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "close, lock, etc. the stable door after the horse has bolted"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Late Response

Used when actions are taken too late to be effective.

Illustration for Late Response
After the flood, they raised the bridge, like closing the stable door after the horse has bolted.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Pointless Action

Highlights an action that cannot undo past harm.

Illustration for Pointless Action
He apologized after cheating, a classic case of closing the stable door after the horse has bolted.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Irony

Often used to point out the irony of a futile gesture.

Illustration for Irony
Adding more security after the theft felt like locking the stable door after the horse had bolted.
Visual representation of the word "Close, lock, etc. the stable door after the horse has bolted"

Never forget "Close, lock, etc. the stable door after the horse has bolted"

Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!

Download on the App StoreGet it on Google PlayGet it from MicrosoftGet it on AppGallery
Chrome

WordUp Chrome Extension

As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.

Get Chrome Extension
Back to top