French Expression · Advanced
Passer l'éponge
To let bygones be bygones / To forgive and forget
Pronunciation: pah-SAY lay-PONZH
Meaning
To forgive a past offense or mistake and no longer hold a grudge.
Example
Malgré leur dispute, ils ont décidé de passer l'éponge et d'aller de l'avant.
Despite their argument, they decided to let bygones be bygones and move forward.
Practice tips
- Practice Passer l'éponge out loud — read the pronunciation guide above and repeat.
- Use it in your own sentence today; reuse beats rereading.
- Pay attention to context: this French expression is for advanced-level learners.