The idiom "crying over spilled milk" means regretting something that has already happened and cannot be changed. The spelling of "crying" is straightforward, with the "i" and "y" forming a diphthong /aɪ/. "Spilled" uses a double "l" to indicate that the "i" should be short, making the pronunciation /spɪld/. "Milk" is spelled as expected, with the "i" forming a lax /ɪ/ sound and the "l" being silent, making the pronunciation /mɪlk/. Together, these words create a commonly used phrase with a simple spelling.
"Crying over spilled milk" is an idiomatic expression that is used to convey the act of expressing regret, sorrow, or frustration about something that has already happened and cannot be changed or undone. The phrase is often used to caution against dwelling on past mistakes, mishaps, or misfortunes that are beyond one's control, implying that it is pointless to feel upset or remorseful over something that cannot be rectified.
Metaphorically, "spilled milk" refers to an insignificant or trivial event or situation that carries no substantial consequences. Such incidents are characterized by their irreversibility and the inability to reverse the outcome. The idiom suggests that it is not worth wasting time, energy, or emotions on insignificant matters that cannot be reversed.
The phrase can be employed to emphasize the importance of maintaining a positive attitude, resilience, or adaptability in the face of adversity. It encourages individuals to focus on finding solutions or learning from their mistakes rather than ruminating over past missteps. It implies that it is more productive and constructive to move forward and concentrate on future endeavors rather than dwelling on past incidents that cannot be changed. In a broader sense, this idiom serves as a reminder to prioritize one's efforts on situations and circumstances that can be controlled, rather than fretting over things that have already occurred and are beyond one's influence.