In 15 Seconds
- Don't worry about future problems now.
- Deal with issues only when they arise.
- Focus on the present, not hypothetical worries.
- It's about practical, calm problem-solving.
Meaning
This phrase tells you not to worry about future problems yet. It's a gentle nudge to focus on the present. Basically, you'll handle whatever comes up when it actually shows up, not a moment sooner. It's about managing anxiety and staying grounded.
Key Examples
3 of 12Texting a friend about a potential career change
I'm thinking about quitting my job, but the job market seems tough. I guess I'll just have to **cross that bridge when I come to it.**
I'll deal with finding a new job when I actually quit.
Discussing a difficult project with a colleague
This part of the project is tricky, and I'm worried about the client's reaction later. Let's just focus on finishing this section first; we can **cross that bridge when we come to it.**
We'll deal with the client's reaction later.
Instagram caption for a travel photo
Feeling a little overwhelmed by planning the next leg of the trip, but hey, we'll **cross that bridge when we come to it!** #travelgoals #adventuretime
We'll deal with the next part of the trip when it happens.
Cultural Background
This phrase taps into a universal human tendency to worry about the future. Its existence highlights a cultural value placed on practicality and emotional resilience. The metaphor of a bridge suggests a journey, implying that life is a series of challenges to be faced sequentially rather than all at once. It reflects a folk wisdom that encourages focusing energy where it's most effective: on the present.
Don't Use It As An Excuse!
The phrase is about *when* you’ll deal with something, not *if*. Using it to avoid responsibility for known, serious issues (like overdue bills or critical maintenance) is a major blunder. It's for hypothetical worries, not actionable problems.
Master the Tone
Deliver it warmly! It's meant to reassure, not dismiss. A slight smile or a comforting tone makes all the difference. Imagine you're giving a friend a gentle nudge, not brushing them off.
In 15 Seconds
- Don't worry about future problems now.
- Deal with issues only when they arise.
- Focus on the present, not hypothetical worries.
- It's about practical, calm problem-solving.
What It Means
This idiom is a friendly way to say 'don't stress about something that hasn't happened.' It’s like a mental permission slip to postpone worry. You're not ignoring the problem forever. You're just deciding to tackle it *if* and *when* it becomes a real issue. Think of it as a practical approach to life's uncertainties. It helps you avoid getting overwhelmed by 'what ifs.' It’s a classic piece of advice for keeping your cool.
Origin Story
The exact origin is a bit murky, but the imagery is powerful. Imagine a literal bridge over a river or chasm. You can see it from a distance. You know you'll need to cross it to get to the other side. But if you're still miles away, worrying about *how* you'll cross – will the planks hold? Will there be a toll? – is pointless. You only need to think about the bridge itself when you are *at* the bridge. This practical, visual metaphor likely comes from common sense and everyday experience. It’s been around for ages, possibly evolving from older proverbs about facing obstacles.
How To Use It
You use this phrase when someone is excessively worried about a future possibility. It's a way to calm them down and redirect their focus. You can say it directly to someone. Or you can even say it to yourself as a reminder. It's versatile! It works in conversations, emails, or even just a mental note. Think of it as a verbal deep breath for stressful situations. It signals a practical, no-nonsense attitude towards potential trouble.
Real-Life Examples
- Your friend is freaking out about a potential layoff. You say, "Hey, I know it's scary, but let's cross that bridge when we come to it."
- You're planning a trip and worrying about flight delays. You tell yourself, "Okay, I'll pack extra snacks, but I'll cross that bridge when I come to it regarding the actual flight."
- A colleague is anxious about a project deadline months away. You suggest, "Let's focus on the current phase. We can cross that bridge when we come to it regarding the final push."
- Your parents are worried about you moving to a new city. You reassure them, "I'll figure out the job market there once I arrive. I'll cross that bridge when I come to it."
When To Use It
Use this when someone is dwelling on a hypothetical problem. It's perfect for situations where the outcome is uncertain. When you want to encourage a pragmatic outlook. When you need to stop someone from spiraling into anxiety. It’s great for advising someone to focus on immediate tasks. It helps shift the mental energy from worrying to doing. Think of it as a tool for present-moment living.
When NOT To Use It
Avoid this if the problem is imminent and requires immediate planning. If a hurricane is forecast for tomorrow, you need to prepare *now*, not later. Don't use it for serious, predictable risks that demand proactive steps. It's not suitable for situations where inaction has severe consequences. Also, don't use it dismissively. It can sound uncaring if the person's worry is valid and urgent. It's not an excuse to be lazy or unprepared!
Common Mistakes
A common slip-up is using it to avoid responsibility altogether. Someone might say, "My finances are a mess, but I'll cross that bridge when I come to it," meaning they won't budget or save. This misses the point! The phrase is about *when* you'll deal with it, not *if*. Another mistake is using it for things that are already happening. You can't cross a bridge you're already on!
- ✗ "I need to start saving for retirement now, but I'll cross that bridge when I come to it."
- ✓ "I'm not worried about retirement planning today. I'll cross that bridge when I come to it."
- ✗ "The project is due next week, but we'll cross that bridge when we come to it."
- ✓ "The project is due next week. Let's focus on finishing the current tasks first and cross that bridge regarding the final review when we come to it."
Similar Expressions
Don't count your chickens before they hatch: Similar, but focuses on not assuming success prematurely.One step at a time: Emphasizes gradual progress, often used when facing a big task.Take things as they come: Very close synonym, suggesting flexibility and adaptability.Deal with it when it happens: A more direct, less idiomatic way to say the same thing.
Memory Trick
Picture yourself standing at the edge of a river. You see a bridge far in the distance. You can't possibly cross it now. You have to walk *to* the river first. Only then can you think about the bridge itself. So, you deal with the *river* first, then the *bridge*. Focus on the immediate steps, not the distant obstacle.
Quick FAQ
- Is it optimistic or pessimistic? It's pragmatic. It doesn't assume the best or worst, just realism.
- Can I use it in a formal setting? Yes, but carefully. It leans informal. A more formal alternative might be needed.
- What if the problem is serious? If it requires immediate action, this phrase is inappropriate. It's for *potential* future issues.
Usage Notes
This is a distinctly informal idiom, best used in casual conversation among friends, family, or familiar colleagues. While the meaning is clear, using it in formal business or academic writing might seem unprofessional. Be mindful not to use it to excuse negligence or avoid responsibility for predictable, imminent issues.
Don't Use It As An Excuse!
The phrase is about *when* you’ll deal with something, not *if*. Using it to avoid responsibility for known, serious issues (like overdue bills or critical maintenance) is a major blunder. It's for hypothetical worries, not actionable problems.
Master the Tone
Deliver it warmly! It's meant to reassure, not dismiss. A slight smile or a comforting tone makes all the difference. Imagine you're giving a friend a gentle nudge, not brushing them off.
The Journey Metaphor
This phrase thrives on the idea of life as a journey with obstacles (bridges). It reflects a cultural tendency to value sequential problem-solving and resilience over constant, preemptive anxiety.
Avoid for Urgent Matters
If a problem requires immediate attention (like a fire alarm!), this phrase is completely inappropriate. It can sound dangerously flippant. Stick to using it for future uncertainties, not present emergencies.
Self-Talk Power
Feeling overwhelmed? Use it on yourself! 'Okay, this presentation is huge, but I'll cross that bridge when I come to it. Right now, I need to research.' It’s a great mental reset button.
Examples
12I'm thinking about quitting my job, but the job market seems tough. I guess I'll just have to **cross that bridge when I come to it.**
I'll deal with finding a new job when I actually quit.
The speaker acknowledges a future challenge (job market) but defers active worry about it.
This part of the project is tricky, and I'm worried about the client's reaction later. Let's just focus on finishing this section first; we can **cross that bridge when we come to it.**
We'll deal with the client's reaction later.
Used to postpone dealing with a potential future issue (client reaction) to focus on the current task.
Feeling a little overwhelmed by planning the next leg of the trip, but hey, we'll **cross that bridge when we come to it!** #travelgoals #adventuretime
We'll deal with the next part of the trip when it happens.
Adds a lighthearted, relatable touch to the caption, acknowledging potential future travel hiccups.
Regarding potential market shifts impacting our strategy, I believe in adapting as needed. We'll **cross that bridge when we come to it.**
We will adapt to market changes when they occur.
Shows a pragmatic approach to future uncertainty in a professional context.
Don't worry too much about the weather forecast for Saturday! If it rains, we'll figure something out. We'll **cross that bridge when we come to it.**
We'll deal with the rain if it happens.
Reassures a friend by suggesting they postpone worrying about a potential problem (bad weather).
I'm not sure how we'll solve the final integration issue, but the current module needs finishing first. I'll **cross that bridge when I come to it.**
I'll deal with the integration issue later.
Used as a self-reminder to prioritize current tasks over future, unresolved problems.
The doorbell rang, and it was my cousin's entire family! We had zero notice, but you know us, we always **cross that bridge when we come to it** – ended up ordering pizza for everyone!
We handle unexpected situations as they happen.
Used humorously to describe a situation where they had to improvise, implying a lack of prior planning but resourcefulness.
I know we need to discuss our long-term finances, but right now, just getting through this week feels impossible. Can we please **cross that bridge when we come to it?**
Can we deal with our long-term finances later?
Expresses emotional overwhelm, asking to postpone a difficult conversation about future concerns.
✗ I'm worried about my visa expiring next year, but I'll **cross that bridge when I come to it.**
✗ I'll deal with my visa expiring next year when it happens.
Incorrect because the visa expiration is a known, predictable event requiring timely action, not something to defer indefinitely.
✗ We need to start studying for the final exam now, but we'll **cross that bridge when we come to it.**
✗ We will deal with studying for the final exam later.
Incorrect because the final exam is a concrete, upcoming event that requires preparation *before* it arrives, not when it's already here.
My to-do list is a mile long but my motivation is zero today. Guess I'll just **cross that bridge when I come to it**... aka never lol
I'll deal with my to-do list later... maybe.
Used humorously and slightly self-deprecatingly in a comment section, acknowledging procrastination.
We've booked the venue and sent invites! The only thing left is the cake, but we'll **cross that bridge when we come to it** – maybe tomorrow morning?
We'll sort out the cake later.
Indicates that a minor detail (the cake) will be handled closer to the event, not causing worry now.
Test Yourself
Fill in the blank with the correct phrase.
The idiom 'cross that bridge when you come to it' means to deal with a problem when it actually happens, not before.
Choose the sentence that uses the idiom correctly.
Which sentence correctly uses 'cross that bridge when you come to it'?
This sentence correctly applies the idiom to a future, uncertain event (presentation next month), postponing worry about it.
Find and fix the error in the sentence.
The phrase 'cross that bridge when you come to it' is inappropriate here because the exam is an imminent, predictable event requiring immediate action, not something to defer.
Fill in the blank with the correct phrase.
The idiom 'cross that bridge when you come to it' is used to advise someone not to worry about future problems until they actually occur.
Choose the sentence that uses the idiom correctly in context.
Which situation best fits the use of 'cross that bridge when you come to it'?
This option correctly applies the idiom to a future, uncertain inconvenience (flight delays) that doesn't require immediate, proactive planning beyond normal travel preparations.
Find and fix the error in the sentence.
This phrase is misused because significant debt is a present and ongoing problem requiring immediate attention and planning, not a future hypothetical to be deferred.
Translate the sentence into English.
The French sentence expresses a sentiment of postponing worry about a future event, which directly translates to the English idiom 'cross that bridge when you come to it'.
Put the words in the correct order to form a sentence.
This is the standard form of the idiom, meaning to deal with a problem only when it actually occurs.
Match the phrase with its meaning.
Understanding the nuances of idioms helps in using them correctly in different contexts.
Translate the sentence into English.
The Spanish sentence conveys the exact sentiment of the English idiom, advising to postpone dealing with an issue until it's unavoidable.
Fill in the blank with the correct phrase.
The idiom 'cross that bridge when you come to it' advises deferring worry or action on a future potential problem until it becomes an immediate reality.
Put the words in the correct order to form a sentence.
This is a common variant of the idiom, used when speaking about a group or shared future challenge.
🎉 Score: /12
Visual Learning Aids
Formality Spectrum for 'Cross That Bridge When You Come To It'
Used freely in casual chats with friends, texting, social media.
OMG, my landlord is raising the rent again! Ugh, I'll cross that bridge when I come to it.
Common in everyday conversations, friendly emails, and relaxed work environments.
I'm worried about the project deadline, but let's focus on today's tasks. We'll cross that bridge when we come to it.
Can be used cautiously in slightly more formal settings if the context is right, but leans informal.
Regarding the long-term implications, we acknowledge the uncertainty and will address those issues as they arise.
Generally avoided in very formal writing or official speeches.
We will address potential future challenges as they materialize.
When to Use 'Cross That Bridge When You Come To It'
Friend stressing about a future exam
Don't cram now, focus on today's material. We'll cross that bridge when we come to it.
Colleague anxious about project scope creep
Let's finish this phase first; we'll cross that bridge when we come to it.
Personal worry about financial uncertainty
Rent's going up next year, but I'll cross that bridge when I come to it.
Planning travel and minor potential delays
Worried about flight delays? We'll cross that bridge when we come to it.
Responding to hypothetical 'what ifs'
What if it rains on our picnic? We'll cross that bridge when we come to it.
Encouraging someone to focus on the present
Just do your best today; we'll cross that bridge when we come to it.
Comparing 'Cross That Bridge...' with Similar Phrases
Usage Categories for 'Cross That Bridge...'
Advice/Reassurance
- • Calming an anxious friend
- • Encouraging a colleague
- • Self-talk for stress reduction
Problem-Solving Stance
- • Prioritizing current tasks
- • Deferring non-urgent issues
- • Adopting a pragmatic approach
Contexts to Avoid
- • Imminent dangers
- • Serious predictable risks
- • Situations requiring immediate action
Informal Communication
- • Text messages
- • Social media captions
- • Casual conversations
Practice Bank
12 exercisesI'm worried about finding a new apartment after graduation, but I'll ___ when I come to it.
The idiom 'cross that bridge when you come to it' means to deal with a problem when it actually happens, not before.
Which sentence correctly uses 'cross that bridge when you come to it'?
This sentence correctly applies the idiom to a future, uncertain event (presentation next month), postponing worry about it.
Find and fix the mistake:
I know we have a big exam next week, but I'll **cross that bridge when I come to it.**
The phrase 'cross that bridge when you come to it' is inappropriate here because the exam is an imminent, predictable event requiring immediate action, not something to defer.
My sister is worried about paying for college next year, but I told her, 'Don't stress too much right now. We'll ___ when we come to it.'
The idiom 'cross that bridge when you come to it' is used to advise someone not to worry about future problems until they actually occur.
Which situation best fits the use of 'cross that bridge when you come to it'?
This option correctly applies the idiom to a future, uncertain inconvenience (flight delays) that doesn't require immediate, proactive planning beyond normal travel preparations.
Find and fix the mistake:
He's facing a huge debt, but he keeps saying he'll **cross that bridge when he comes to it.**
This phrase is misused because significant debt is a present and ongoing problem requiring immediate attention and planning, not a future hypothetical to be deferred.
Je ne m'inquiète pas pour le déménagement pour l'instant. On verra ça plus tard.
Hints: The phrase 'on verra ça plus tard' means 'we'll see about that later'., Think about dealing with a problem when it happens.
The French sentence expresses a sentiment of postponing worry about a future event, which directly translates to the English idiom 'cross that bridge when you come to it'.
Arrange the words in the correct order:
Click words above to build the sentence
This is the standard form of the idiom, meaning to deal with a problem only when it actually occurs.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
Understanding the nuances of idioms helps in using them correctly in different contexts.
No te preocupes por eso ahora, ya lo resolveremos cuando llegue el momento.
Hints: The Spanish phrase 'cuando llegue el momento' means 'when the time comes'., The core idea is delaying the confrontation of a problem.
The Spanish sentence conveys the exact sentiment of the English idiom, advising to postpone dealing with an issue until it's unavoidable.
I know the final presentation is daunting, but we've got the research done. We'll just have to ___ when we come to it.
The idiom 'cross that bridge when you come to it' advises deferring worry or action on a future potential problem until it becomes an immediate reality.
Arrange the words in the correct order:
Click words above to build the sentence
This is a common variant of the idiom, used when speaking about a group or shared future challenge.
🎉 Score: /12
Video Tutorials
Find video tutorials on YouTube for this phrase.
Frequently Asked Questions
18 questionsIt means you should deal with a problem or challenge only when it actually happens, rather than worrying about it or planning for it in advance. It's a way to encourage focusing on the present and avoiding unnecessary anxiety about future possibilities.
It's neither strictly optimistic nor pessimistic; it's fundamentally **pragmatic**. It doesn't assume things will go well or badly, but rather advises a practical approach: face issues when they are real and immediate, not just hypothetical.
It's generally considered informal, so use it cautiously in formal settings. While understandable, it might sound a bit too casual. A more formal alternative like 'We will address those issues as they arise' might be better suited for very professional contexts.
Use it when someone is expressing anxiety about a future possibility that isn't immediate or certain. It's perfect for reassuring them to focus on current tasks and postpone worrying until the issue actually materializes.
If the future problem is predictable, serious, and requires immediate planning (like climate change impacts or a known health risk), this phrase is inappropriate. It's best reserved for less certain or less immediately actionable future concerns.
'Take it one day at a time' focuses on managing a large or ongoing task by breaking it into small, daily actions. 'Cross that bridge...' focuses specifically on deferring worry about a *future problem* until it becomes present.
Absolutely! It's a great tool for self-management. When you find yourself worrying excessively about 'what ifs,' reminding yourself 'Okay, I'll cross that bridge when I come to it' can help you refocus on what needs doing right now.
A common mistake is using it to justify procrastination on important, predictable tasks. For example, saying 'I'll cross that bridge when I come to it' about filing taxes that are due soon misses the point – it's about deferring *worry*, not *action* on imminent responsibilities.
Yes, you might hear 'We'll cross that bridge when we come to it' when speaking for a group, or slight variations in wording. The core meaning of deferring action or worry about a future issue remains consistent across common variations.
The exact origin is unclear, but it likely stems from the practical, literal imagery of encountering a bridge on a journey. You wouldn't worry about crossing it until you actually reached it; you'd focus on the path leading up to it first.
It's best classified as informal. You'd use it with friends, family, or colleagues you know well. In more formal business or academic writing, it's usually better to use a more direct statement like 'We will address this issue when it becomes relevant.'
Yes, it can be perceived negatively if used dismissively. If someone is genuinely concerned about a valid future risk, telling them to 'cross that bridge when you come to it' might sound uncaring or unhelpful. Context and tone are crucial.
It implies a pragmatic, perhaps slightly laid-back attitude towards future uncertainties. The speaker isn't necessarily irresponsible, but they prefer to focus their energy on current realities rather than hypothetical future problems.
Many languages have similar idioms reflecting the same practical wisdom. For instance, Spanish has 'cruzar ese puente cuando lleguemos a él,' and French has 'on verra bien.' These phrases all convey the idea of dealing with problems as they arise.
The 'bridge' metaphorically represents a future problem, challenge, or decision point. You haven't reached it yet, so you don't need to worry about the act of crossing it (solving it) until you are actually standing before it.
Yes, it can be used sarcastically, especially if someone is clearly avoiding responsibility for something that is becoming imminent. The sarcasm would highlight the absurdity of their 'wait-and-see' approach to a pressing issue.
They are opposites! 'Cross that bridge when you come to it' means to deal with a future issue later. 'Burn that bridge' means to permanently destroy a relationship or opportunity, making it impossible to go back – definitely something you *don't* want to do lightly!
It's a key tool for managing anxiety. By consciously deciding to postpone worry about uncertain future events, you free up mental energy to deal with current tasks and reduce overall stress levels. It's a form of cognitive reframing.
Related Phrases
Take things as they come
synonymTo deal with situations as they happen, without trying to plan or control everything.
Both phrases encourage a flexible and adaptable approach to life's uncertainties, focusing on the present rather than future anxieties.
One step at a time
related topicTo approach a large or difficult task gradually, focusing on each immediate action.
While 'cross that bridge...' postpones worry about a future obstacle, 'one step at a time' focuses on the methodical process of tackling a current, large task.
Don't count your chickens before they hatch
related topicDon't assume you will get the things you want until you actually have them.
Both phrases caution against premature assumptions, but 'chickens' relates to assuming success, while 'bridge' relates to worrying about failure.
Deal with it when it happens
synonymA direct, non-idiomatic way to say the same thing as 'cross that bridge...'.
This is a more literal and less colorful phrasing that conveys the exact same core message of delaying problem-solving until necessary.
Let sleeping dogs lie
related topicAvoid interfering in a situation that is currently calm but might cause trouble if disturbed.
Both phrases suggest avoiding unnecessary engagement with potential problems, but 'sleeping dogs' applies to existing, dormant issues, whereas 'bridge' applies to future, hypothetical ones.
Bite the bullet
antonymTo face a difficult or unpleasant situation with courage and stoicism.
While 'cross that bridge...' suggests delaying confrontation, 'bite the bullet' implies facing a difficult situation head-on, often immediately.
