Fall by the wayside

usgb
verb phrase

To fail or stop making progress, often due to neglect, or become irrelevant or unused.

Many of the concepts we learned in school have fallen by the wayside as we've grown older.
Visual representation of "fall by the wayside" - To fail or stop making progress, often due to neglect, or become irrelevant or unused

Often appears as...

  • ideas fall by the wayside
  • plans fall by the wayside

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "fall by the wayside"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Unexpected Neglect

This phrase often suggests something is unintentionally forgotten amid other concerns.

Illustration for Unexpected Neglect
His personal projects fell by the wayside when work became too demanding.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Subtle Disappointment

It implies a sense of disappointment or failure without directly stating it.

Illustration for Subtle Disappointment
Her dreams of being a dancer fell by the wayside as years passed.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Contextual Usage

Often used in conversations about goals, plans, and ambitions that have been abandoned.

Illustration for Contextual Usage
Many reforms fall by the wayside due to political resistance.
Visual representation of the word "Fall by the wayside"

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