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Region: General | Usage example: She crossed the pond for the conference.

Cross the pond

Meaning

Travel between the Atlantic between US and Europe.

Usage

Used when referencing transatlantic journeys.

Origin & History

Origins and dates here are approximate summaries. Many idioms have disputed or unknown origins, and not every date has been checked against a historical dictionary, so treat specific dates and stories as a starting point rather than a citation.

Oceanic metaphor of the pond between continents.

Used in British and American press since the 20th century.

Related Idioms

Cross that bridge when you come to it

Deal with problems as they appear.

Cross that bridge when it comes

Deal with a problem later when it arises.

Cross the line

Go beyond acceptable limits.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.