the die is cast

/ðə daɪ ɪz ˈkæst/
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A decisive step has been taken and cannot be undone.

Examples

  • Once the contract is signed, the die is cast.
  • They crossed the border; now the die is cast.
  • She sent the letter and knew the die was cast.
  • After the vote, the die is cast for the new law.
  • We have announced the launch, so the die is cast.

Similar words

there is no turning back
the point of no return
the decision is final

Meanings

An irreversible decision has been made

decision
formal
Said after a choice or action has committed people to a course whose outcome is now beyond their control.

Examples

  • Once the contract is signed, the die is cast.
  • We have announced the launch, so the die is cast.
  • She sent the letter and knew the die was cast.
  • After the vote, the die is cast for the new law.
  • They crossed the border; now the die is cast.

Similar words

Etymology

Die is one gaming cube, and cast means thrown. Once thrown, its course cannot be taken back, which supplies the image of an irreversible choice.

FAQ

What does the die is cast mean?

The die is cast means a decisive step cannot be taken back.

When is the die is cast used?

It is said after a choice commits someone to a risky course.

How does the die is cast differ from decided?

Decided states a choice, while the die is cast stresses that events are now moving beyond control.

How is the die is cast used in a sentence?

Once the contract is signed, the die is cast.

Is the die is cast formal?

Here die is the singular of dice, not the verb about death.

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