The idiom 'To cry over spilt milk' means 'Regret past mistakes' or, more broadly, to express sorrow or regret over something that has already happened and cannot be changed. The image of spilt milk is used because once milk is spilt, it cannot be gathered back into the container; the situation is irreversible. Therefore, lamenting it is futile. This idiom serves as a reminder that dwelling on past misfortunes or errors that are beyond rectification is unproductive and often a waste of emotional energy. Instead, the implied advice is to accept what has happened and move forward. For example, if someone misses an opportunity, they might be told, 'Don't cry over spilt milk; focus on the next chance.' The other options—'Plan for future,' 'Celebrate success,' and 'Work hard'—represent actions that are either forward-looking, positive, or proactive, which are contrary to the meaning of this idiom. It specifically addresses the unproductive nature of dwelling on the unchangeable past.
Choose the correct idiom: ‘To cry over spilt milk’ means:
Correct Answer:
A. Regret past mistakes