English Reference
Idiom idiom

that ship has sailed


It's too late


SIMPLE

“I want to apply for the job, but that ship has sailed.”

CONTEXTUAL

“He waited too long to ask her to the dance, and now that ship has sailed because she is going with someone else.”

COMPLEX

“The company considered investing in the new technology last year, but now that competitors dominate the market, it is clear that ship has sailed.”

Last updated June 7, 2026