The phrase "gone by the board" is an idiom referring to something that has been lost or forgotten. The word "gone" is pronounced [gɒn], with a short "o" sound, and is spelled with a silent "e" at the end. "By" is pronounced [baɪ] with a long "i" sound, and "board" is pronounced [bɔːd], with a long "o" sound. The phrase is spelled as it is pronounced, with no unusual spelling rules.
The phrase "gone by the board" refers to something that has been abandoned, disregarded, or lost. It suggests the complete abandonment or elimination of an idea, plan, or concept. It is often used in reference to something that was once important, relevant, or expected, but has now been forgotten or rejected.
The origin of this phrase can be traced back to maritime terminology. In sailing, the "board" referred to the side of a ship. When an object or person fell overboard, it was said to be "gone by the board," implying that it had fallen off the ship and was lost or forgotten at sea.
In a broader sense, the phrase has come to represent the idea of something being discarded or discarded due to changing circumstances or priorities. It implies that a particular idea or objective was not successful or considered to be of lesser importance. It can also indicate that something has been overtaken by more urgent events or developments.
Whether used in a literal or metaphorical sense, "gone by the board" conveys a sense of loss, abandonment, or disregard. It often denotes the dismissal or abandonment of once-important plans, goals, or beliefs. This phrase is commonly used in business, politics, and everyday conversations to highlight the abandonment or disregarding of significant ideas or objectives.