put the toothpaste back in the tube
To revert a situation; to put things back as they were before something (usually an unwelcome thing) became a reality.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“Once the secret is out, you cannot put the toothpaste back in the tube.”
“The company released the controversial update, but they soon realized they could not put the toothpaste back in the tube.”
“After the scandal damaged the politician's reputation, his team realized that they could not put the toothpaste back in the tube, regardless of how many apologies they issued.”
- 01
all the way to Egery and back
The long way; a roundabout route; a long distance to travel.
- 02
back down
To take a less aggressive position in a conflict than one previously had, or has planned to have.
- 03
back forty
The most remote or inaccessible part of any place.
- 04
back gammon player
A person, chiefly a homosexual, who has anal sex.
- 05
back in the game
Having recovered from a disadvantageous position.
- 06
back into
To advance to the post-season as a result of another team's loss, especially where one's own team has also lost.
- 07
back of one's hand
A display of disrespect or scorn.
- 08
back off
To become less aggressive, particularly when one had appeared committed to act.
Last updated August 10, 2026