Cross that bridge when you come to it

Suggest a Correction

Meaning

To deal with a problem only when it arises, not fretting ahead.

Origin

From 19th-century America, tied to literal bridges; tough to cross, best faced when there, slang by 1850s for delay. An 1851 Longfellow poem uses it.

Variants

  • Cross the bridge

Usage Examples

  • Will it rain? Cross that bridge when we come to it.
  • She'll cross that bridge when she comes to it; no stress now.
  • Job's iffy? Cross that bridge when you come to it.

Browse More