Understanding the Idiom: "go by the board" - Meaning, Origins, and Usage

Origins and Historical Context of the Idiom “go by the board”

The phrase “go by the board” has a long history and is believed to have originated in nautical terminology. It refers to something that has been lost or discarded, often due to unforeseen circumstances or a change in plans. The idiom was commonly used among sailors during the 19th century, when ships were powered by sails and had large wooden boards (or “boards”) attached to them for stability.

When a ship encountered rough waters or high winds, these boards would sometimes break off and fall into the sea, never to be seen again. This loss was considered significant because it could affect the ship’s ability to sail properly and put its crew at risk. Over time, the phrase “go by the board” came to be associated with any situation where something important was lost or abandoned.

Today, this idiom is still widely used in English-speaking countries as a way of expressing disappointment or regret over missed opportunities or failed plans. It can also refer to situations where someone has disregarded an important rule or principle, causing them harm in some way.

Usage and Variations of the Idiom “go by the board”

When it comes to idioms, there are often variations in usage that can make them more or less appropriate for different situations. The phrase “go by the board” is no exception, with a range of possible interpretations depending on context and tone.

One common variation of this idiom involves using it to describe something that has been abandoned or forgotten. For example, you might say that a plan for a new project has gone by the board if it was never implemented due to lack of funding or interest. Similarly, if someone fails to follow through on a promise or commitment, you could say that their words have gone by the board.

Another way this idiom can be used is to describe something that has been lost or destroyed. In this context, you might use it to talk about an object that has been misplaced or damaged beyond repair. For instance, if your phone falls out of your pocket while hiking and ends up at the bottom of a river, you could say that it went by the board.

Finally, some people use this idiom as a way of expressing disappointment or frustration with how things have turned out. This might involve saying something like “Well, I guess our plans for tonight have gone by the board” when bad weather forces you to cancel outdoor activities.

Synonyms, Antonyms, and Cultural Insights for the Idiom “go by the board”

One synonym for “go by the board” is “fall through,” which implies a failure or disappointment in achieving something. Another synonym is “be forgotten,” indicating that something has been overlooked or neglected. On the other hand, an antonym for this idiom could be “succeed,” suggesting that one has achieved their goals without any hindrances.

Culturally speaking, this idiom originated from nautical terminology where it referred to objects falling overboard during rough seas. It later evolved into a more general expression meaning something being lost or disregarded in any situation. In modern times, it is commonly used in business settings to describe projects or plans that have failed due to unforeseen circumstances.

Practical Exercises for the Idiom “go by the board”

Exercise 1: Fill in the Blank

In this exercise, you will be given a sentence with a blank space where the idiom “go by the board” fits. Choose the correct form of the idiom to complete each sentence.

• The original plan had to _____ when unexpected expenses arose.
• Her dreams of becoming an actress had to _____ when she got pregnant.
• The company’s profits have _____ due to increased competition.

Exercise 2: Role Play

In pairs or small groups, create a scenario where one person uses the idiom “go by the board” in conversation. The other person(s) must respond appropriately while also using idiomatic language. For example:

Person A: “I was supposed to go on vacation next week, but my boss just told me I have to work overtime.”

Person B: “That’s too bad! Your plans really went by the board.”

Person C: “Yeah, it seems like your boss is always throwing a wrench in your plans.”

This exercise will help you practice using idioms naturally in conversation and recognizing them when others use them as well.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using the Idiom “go by the board”

When using idioms, it is important to understand their meaning and usage in context. The idiom “go by the board” is no exception. However, there are common mistakes that people make when using this expression.

Avoiding Literal Interpretations

The first mistake to avoid when using the idiom “go by the board” is taking it literally. This expression does not refer to an actual board or a physical object going somewhere. Instead, it means that something has been disregarded or forgotten.

Using Incorrect Tenses

Another common mistake when using this idiom is incorrect tense usage. The correct form of this expression in past tense would be “went by the board,” not “gone by the board.” Similarly, present tense should use “goes by the board.”

Mistake	Correction
Taking it Literally	Understanding its Figurative Meaning
Incorrect Tense Usage	Using Correct Verb Tenses (past: went, present: goes)