English idiom

cross that bridge when you come to it

Register · Neutral CEFR B2

Post

Figurative meaning

To deal with a problem only when it actually arises, not before.

Why this phrase?

A future problem is pictured as a bridge on the road ahead, best dealt with only after reaching it.

Example

“We might run out of seats, but we'll cross that bridge when we come to it.”

Recorded usage

These full forms were measured in COCA in 2016–2017. Counts apply to the quoted form, not every use of this idiom; overlapping forms are not added together.

“Cross that bridge when you get there” — 3 recorded occurrences

Grouped source variants; editorially classified here as an idiom. Usage counts are separate from CEFR difficulty.

Dictionary details

Tags

Expressions connected by reviewed component words or topic tags.

let the dust settle

To wait until a confusing or troubled situation becomes calm before acting.

easier said than done

Something that sounds simple to do but is actually hard.

for the time being

temporarily, until circumstances change

back to square one

to return to the beginning of a task after an attempt has failed

back to the drawing board

to start planning or designing again after an idea or attempt has failed

bite off more than you can chew

to take on more work than you can handle

Source methodology

Meanings, register, CEFR, and examples come from the reviewed dictionary record. Expression notes may describe a reviewed present-day word picture or a background note; they are not presented as verified etymology.

External links

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