cross that bridge when you come to it origin
author"Cross That Bridge When You Come to It": The Origin of This Phrase
The phrase "cross that bridge when you come to it" is a common idiomatic expression that means to deal with a problem or challenge as it arises, rather than trying to plan for it in advance. This phrase is often used to remind people to be adaptive and to take things one at a time. However, the origin of this phrase is not immediately apparent, and it has been attributed to various sources throughout history. In this article, we will explore the potential origins of this timeless phrase and delve into its rich history.
Historical Background
The phrase "cross that bridge when you come to it" is believed to have originated in the United Kingdom during the 18th or 19th centuries. At that time, bridges were often built with a single path, making it difficult for pedestrians to change directions. As a result, people would often have to "cross that bridge" when they arrived at it, rather than trying to predict the path they would need to take.
The phrase is often attributed to the English author and playwright William Shakespeare, who lived from 1564 to 1616. However, no specific works by Shakespeare or any other author from his era clearly mention this phrase. Instead, the phrase seems to have evolved over time, with various versions appearing in different regions and cultures.
Various Versions
The phrase "cross that bridge when you come to it" has been recorded in various forms throughout history. One version, "step across the bridge when you come to it," appears in a 17th-century English play titled The Unfortunate Traveler by Thomas d'Urfey. Another version, "take up the bridge when you come to it," appears in a 19th-century English novel titled The Life and Adventures of Calvin Brown by Thomas Hooker.
Despite these variations, the core meaning of the phrase remains the same: to deal with challenges and problems as they arise, rather than trying to predict or plan for them in advance. This phrase has become so familiar that it is often used informally, without considering its historical background.
The phrase "cross that bridge when you come to it" is a testament to the flexibility and adaptability that has characterized human society since ancient times. As we continue to face new challenges and problems in today's world, it is useful to remember this phrase and adopt a proactive, problem-solving approach, rather than trying to plan for every possible scenario. By "crossing that bridge when we come to it," we can better adapt to the uncertainties of life and continue to move forward with courage and determination.