parade passed someone by: Idiom Meaning and Origin

One well-known idiom is "parade passed someone by." This idiom is commonly used in the English language, particularly in the United States. It carries a figurative meaning and is not to be taken literally. The idiom implies that someone has been overlooked, ignored, or left behind while others around them are progressing or moving forward in some way. It suggests a feeling of being left out or being unable to keep up with the changes and advancements happening around them.

When someone says that the parade has passed them by, they are expressing a sense of missed opportunities or a feeling of not being able to catch up with the rest of the world. It can refer to various aspects of life, such as career advancements, technological advancements, or even social trends. The idiom emphasizes a sense of regret or disappointment, as the person may feel like they have been left behind in their personal or professional life.

The idiom "parade passed someone by" has its origins in the tradition of parades. Parades are events that involve a procession of individuals or groups, usually celebrating a specific occasion or event. Historically, parades were significant cultural and social events, attracting large crowds and participants. Parades were often associated with celebration, display of power or wealth, and a sense of community.

Over time, the phrase "parade passed someone by" evolved from the literal meaning of being physically left behind as a parade procession moved along a route and the spectators failed to keep up. The idiom took on a metaphorical meaning, signifying being left behind in a metaphorical sense, rather than a literal one. In this context, the parade represents progress, success, or the changing times, while the person being passed by symbolizes someone who has failed to keep up with these advancements.

This idiom is commonly used in various situations. For example, someone might use it to express their feelings of missing out on opportunities for career growth or promotion. They may feel that others around them are advancing professionally, while they remain stagnant or left behind. Similarly, it can be used in the context of personal relationships, where someone may feel that others are moving forward, finding love or happiness, while they are stuck or overlooked.

While the idiom "parade passed someone by" carries a negative connotation, it also presents an opportunity for reflection and self-evaluation. It encourages individuals to consider their current situation and take action to catch up or make changes in their lives. It serves as a reminder that life is constantly moving forward, and it is up to each person to actively participate and keep up with the changes around them.

The idiom "parade passed someone by" can be related to the idioms "go by the wayside," "fall by the wayside," and "fly by." Each of these idioms carries a similar concept of being left behind or overlooked in some way.

The idiom "go by the wayside" refers to something or someone becoming neglected or forgotten. It suggests that something was once important or relevant, but it has now faded or been abandoned. When the parade passes someone by, they may feel like their own significance or relevance has gone by the wayside.

Similarly, the idiom "fall by the wayside" conveys the idea of being left behind or discarded. It implies that someone or something was initially part of a group or a process, but they were unable to keep up or maintain their position. When the parade passes someone by, they may feel like they have fallen by the wayside, unable to keep up with the progress happening around them.

The idiom "fly by" relates to the notion of something happening quickly or passing by in a fleeting manner. It suggests that an opportunity or moment has come and gone in the blink of an eye. When the parade passes someone by, it can feel like life is flying by, with missed opportunities and fleeting moments of progress.

Overall, the idiom "parade passed someone by" encapsulates the feeling of being left behind or overlooked in various aspects of life. It originated from the tradition of parades and evolved to convey a sense of regret or disappointment. The related idioms "go by the wayside," "fall by the wayside," and "fly by" further emphasize this concept of being left behind or unable to keep up. While negative in their connotations, these idioms also serve as reminders to reflect on one's current situation and take action to catch up with the changing times. Like a parade that moves along, life continues to progress, and it is important for individuals to actively participate and adapt to avoid being left behind.