go by the board

Are you using the idiom go by the board but not sure about its meaning? Using idioms, which are important elements of spoken and written language, in the right place strengthens your language skills. Examine the meaning of the go by the board idiom and the situations in which it is used.

Meaning of "go by the board"

Meaning

The idiom “go by the board” generally means to be discarded or abandoned. It originates from the nautical term of the same name which was used centuries ago to describe a type of emergency salvage operation. In sailing, the term was used to describe when a ship’s crew cut away a part of the mast or rigging that had become damaged and was in danger of sinking the ship.

Etymology

The phrase “go by the board” is thought to have first been used in a nautical context in the early 19th century. It likely originates from when a captain would order a part of the mast to be cut away from the ship to prevent it from sinking. The phrase was later adopted by land-based English speakers in the mid 19th century, to refer to any action of discarding or abandoning something.

Usage

The phrase “go by the board” is most commonly used in the context of discarding or abandoning ideas, plans, or strategies. It can also refer to people who have been dismissed from their position or job. Generally, the phrase implies that something is no longer considered valuable or viable.

Example Sentences

• The prime minister decided that the plan had to go by the board and they started fresh with a new proposal.
• After the scandal broke, all of his policies went by the board.
• The board of directors had to go by the board in order to bring in a new leadership team.

From Shakespeare to Social Media: The Evolution of English Idioms

English idioms have been around for centuries, with many originating from sources like literature, mythology, and everyday life. Shakespeare, for example, coined many phrases that are still used today, such as "break the ice" and "heart of gold." Over time, new idioms have emerged, with social media and popular culture providing rich sources of inspiration. For instance, the phrase "throwing shade" came into use in the 1990s thanks to ball culture, but has since been popularized by social media.