Used to describe actions that started in the past and continue into or have direct relevance to the present.
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
"Well, that ship has sailed", was her reply.
From BBC ● Mar. 22, 2026
"Given the size of the ships, electronic assistance has become necessary to steer them," said one merchant marine captain who has sailed on cargo ships around the world.
From Barron's ● Mar. 8, 2026
“I’d have thought they would have taken us in and welcomed us after a long journey,” said 66-year-old Canadian Gibson, who has sailed since he was 18.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 12, 2025
But I confess: A lot of the time, I do find myself struggling with the feeling that the ship has sailed and that nobody is interested in having that conversation anymore.
From Slate ● Sep. 8, 2025
“My school was evacuated to Berkshire. I’ll miss my friends, but I’m quite keen for a new adventure. My grandmother summoned me to Cleveland, but that ship has sailed, you see. Pun intended.”
From "The Bletchley Riddle" by Ruta Sepetys and Steve Sheinkin
