# live in the past

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/live-in-the-past
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To dwell on and ruminate about past events.

## Examples

- You should stop living in the past and look forward.
- He refuses to try new hobbies because he is still living in the past, constantly talking about his old college days.
- By choosing to live in the past, she missed the vibrant opportunities of the present and remained trapped in memories that no longer served her.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.