the sun sets on something: Idiom Meaning and Origin

What does ‘the sun sets on something’ mean?

The idiom "the sun sets on something" means that something is coming to an end or reaching its completion.

Idiom Explorer

Vanishing Twilight

The idiom "the sun sets on something" is a common phrase used in the English language. It signifies the end or completion of a particular period or era. The literal meaning of the idiom refers to the setting of the sun, which marks the end of the day and the beginning of the night. Symbolically, the sun setting represents the conclusion of a cycle, suggesting that something has come to an end or is reaching its final stages. This could refer to the end of a specific event, project, or even an era in history.

In a figurative sense, the idiom implies the decline or demise of something. It can be used to describe the end of a career, the fading influence of a person or organization, or the termination of an era of prosperity. The idiom carries a tone of finality, indicating that the thing being referenced is coming to an inevitable end and will no longer have the same significance or impact.

One example of the idiom's usage is in relation to the decline or end of a political dynasty. Just as the sun eventually sets, the power and influence of a ruling family may diminish or come to an end over time. This interpretation highlights the cyclical nature of power and the transient nature of human achievements.

Twilight brings the sunset, signaling the ending.

Additionally, the idiom can be used in a more personal context to indicate the closure of a chapter in one's life. It may refer to the end of a relationship, the completion of a long-term goal, or the culmination of a particular phase of personal growth. The phrase carries a sense of finality and the acceptance of change.

The phrase "come to an end" is closely related to the idiom "the sun sets on something." These idioms both convey the idea of reaching a point of conclusion or termination. While "the sun sets on something" uses the imagery of the setting sun to symbolize this idea, "come to an end" directly expresses the notion of something reaching its final stages or ceasing to exist. Both idioms capture the sense of closure and the acceptance of an inevitable ending.

Similarly, the phrase "at the end of the day" is related to the idiom "the sun sets on something." Both expressions emphasize the idea of a conclusion or final outcome. "At the end of the day" suggests that after all is said and done, when everything is considered, a certain result or resolution is reached. This phrase acknowledges that despite any twists and turns along the way, eventually the day comes to an end and a decision or outcome is determined.

Another related idiom is "come to a close," which conveys a similar meaning to "the sun sets on something." Just as the sun sets, indicating the end of the day, "come to a close" signifies the completion or termination of something. This can refer to the conclusion of an event, a period of time, or a phase in one's life. "Come to a close" emphasizes the sense of ending and brings to mind the image of tying up loose ends and wrapping up a chapter.

The idiom "the sun sets on something" captures the concept of an ending or the completion of a particular period. It implies the decline or termination of a specific event, era, or influence. Metaphorically, it denotes the final stages of something and the acceptance of change. The idiom provides a vivid imagery of the setting sun, symbolizing the inevitable passage of time and the transient nature of all things.

Example usage

Examples of how the idiom "the sun sets on something" can be used in a sentence:

1. After decades of popularity, the sun has finally set on the old fashion trend.

2. As the trade negotiations failed, it became clear that the sun was setting on their hopes for a new partnership.

3. With the announcement of a new technology, the sun began to set on the traditional way of doing business.

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