PhrasesHub

washing away

    Definitions

      • discourage someone
        Advise against engaging in a particular activity or task, cautioning that it will not result in any positive outcome or benefit

      • erasing something
        Removing or getting rid of something, often a problem or a memory, as if washing it away

    Examples of washing away

    • The heavy rain washed away the chalk marks on the sidewalk.

      In this example, the idiom "washing away" is used figuratively to describe how the rain eliminated the chalk marks by making them moist and allowing them to be erased easily.

    • The apology washed away her regret for the mistake.

      In this example, the idiom "washing away" is used figuratively to describe how the apology eliminated the speaker's feelings of guilt and remorse by making them feel cleansed and free of the mistake.

    • The deletion of that section of the report washed away its significance.

      In this example, the idiom "washing away" is used figuratively to describe how the removal of the section of the report made its importance disappear by removing its value and relevance.

    • The good news about the promotion washed away my stress and anxiety.

      In this example, the idiom "washing away" is used figuratively to describe how the positive news eliminated the speaker's feelings of stress and anxiety by making them feel cleansed and free of those emotions.

    • The heavy rain washed away the dirt and grime on the sidewalks, leaving them spotless.

      This idiom is used in a literal sense, as water from rain is physically washing away dirt and grime from the sidewalks, leaving them clean.

    • The tears streaming down her face washed away the regret and pain in her heart.

      This idiom is used metaphorically, as tears are washing away the emotions of regret and pain, cleaning the person's heart.

    • The controversy surrounding the politician washed away in the face of his overwhelming popularity.

      This idiom is used figuratively, as the positive sentiment surrounding the politician overwhelms any negative controversy, washing it away.

    • Her determination washed away her fears and doubts, allowing her to succeed.

      This idiom is used metaphorically, as the person's determination washes away her fears and doubts, allowing her to overcome obstacles and succeed.


    Conclusion

    The idiom "washing away" can be used to caution someone against a particular action or to describe the act of removing or erasing something. It serves as a warning or a way to symbolize cleansing or eliminating a problem or memory.

    Origin of "washing away"

    The origin of the idiom "washing away" can be traced back to the literal act of washing something away with water. This action has been a common practice throughout history to clean surfaces or remove dirt. Over time, the concept of washing away has been metaphorically applied to various situations, including the idea of discouraging someone from a certain course of action or erasing something unwanted or negative.

    In everyday language, the idiom "washing away" has become a figurative expression that conveys the idea of cleansing or eliminating something. It is often used to advise against pursuing a particular path or to describe the act of getting rid of a problem or memory. The versatility of this idiom allows it to be used in different contexts to convey a sense of caution or removal.