2024 · Q20
Choose the correct meaning for the given idiom.
The ship has sailed
EnglishIdioms and Phrases
- AThe matter is carried over
- BThe matter is decided
- CThe opportunity has passed
- DSeeking new opportunities
Explanation
‘The ship has sailed’ means that an opportunity has passed and it is too late to act — the chance, like a departed ship, cannot be recalled. Option (b) (‘the matter is decided’) is too broad, and (a) and (d) suggest continuation or new chances, the opposite of the idiom. Hence ‘The opportunity has passed’ is the correct meaning.