life is too short

Idioms

Do not waste time on unimportant matters or unworthy emotions, such as anger or anxiety. For example, I could get my revenge by snubbing Tom, but life's too short, or Don't spend all day waiting for his call—life is too short. This phrase, possibly echoing the ancient Latin proverb, Ars longa, vita brevis (“Art is long-lasting, life is short”), is often used to dismiss an unimportant or unworthy concern. [Mid-1800s]

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Viorst, who scolds herself and peers for whining too much, says life is too short for hurt feelings.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 31, 2025

"I said 'no chance', but then we thought 'you know what, life is too short, let's go for it'," says Billy.

From BBC • Nov. 4, 2024

The old saying is that life is too short to bet the under, but it’s often the wise play.

From Washington Times • Mar. 13, 2023

“My Happy Ending” may at times feel modest, but the lessons imparted are far from disposable, including the idea that life is too short to deny oneself treats or wear uncomfortable shoes.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 23, 2023

He knows life is too short to sweet to spend behind bars ever again.

From "In Cold Blood" by Truman Capote

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023