I put those old papers in the circular file.
circular file
idiomThe trash container; the wastebasket.
Origin
disputed originIn reference to the wastebasket's cylindrical shape, and the act of throwing things away rather than filing them in cabinets.
My boss smiled and dropped my proposal straight into the circular file.
The editor glanced at the manuscript for ten seconds, then with a sigh consigned it to the circular file, another dream dashed.
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circular firing squad
A political party or other group experiencing considerable disarray because the members are engaging in internal disputes and mutual recrimination.
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dirt file
A compilation of negative gossip or facts about someone.
- 03
file away
To cause oneself to remember (something); to avoid expressing a feeling, fact or idea until an appropriate time.
- 04
file off the serial numbers
To alter identifiable details in a creative work in order to conceal its origin.
- 05
rank and file
The members of an organization, community, etc. who are not in leadership positions.
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run someone's file
To search through someone's criminal record.