The show must go on, even if we are tired.
the show must go on
idiomOne must finish what one has started; things must continue no matter what.
Origin
disputed originOriginated in the 19th-century circus industry.
Despite the sudden power outage during the play, the actors continued their performance because the show must go on.
Although the lead singer fell ill moments before the curtain rose, the troupe maintained their composure, fully aware that the show must go on.
- 01
all dressed up and nowhere to go
Elaborately attired or otherwise fully prepared for an anticipated situation or activity which, nevertheless, fails to occur.
- 02
all systems go
Everything is ready.
- 03
as you go
While one is doing (something); as one progresses.
- 04
boldly go where no man has gone before
To break new ground.
- 05
come and go
To repeatedly appear and disappear; to be transient.
- 06
dog and pony show
Any presentation or display that is overly contrived or intricate, while lacking real substance.
- 07
don't go there
Do not broach that topic.
- 08
easy come, easy go
Easily won and easily lost (usually said when resigned to a loss; something that comes in the same way, goes in the same way)
Last updated April 17, 2026