Meaning of Word
“Done and dusted” is an idiomatic phrase used to describe something that has been completed, finished, or resolved without further action required.
Definitions and Meaning in English
- Completely Finished: The phrase indicates that a task, process, or event has been concluded successfully.
- No Further Action Needed: It implies that everything related to the task is done, leaving no loose ends or further involvement.
History and Origin
The exact origin of “done and dusted” is unclear, but it appears to have developed in British English in the early 20th century. The phrase likely stems from the imagery of something being cleaned or tidied up, with “dusting” symbolizing finality or completion, much like the last touches in a task.
Detailed Explanation
“Done and dusted” is often used to refer to something that has been finished thoroughly or settled. It can be used in various contexts, from personal tasks (like cleaning) to professional or legal matters (like completing a deal or project). The phrase emphasizes that nothing more needs to be done.
For example:
- After completing a project, one might say “That’s done and dusted,” indicating the work is finished.
- In a sports context, it might be used to express that a game or season is concluded with no further actions required.
The phrase is often used informally but conveys a sense of finality and resolution.
Example Sentences
- The project is finally done and dusted, and we can move on to the next one.
- After a long meeting, we can say the contract negotiations are done and dusted.
- I’ve cleaned the entire house; it’s done and dusted.
- The wedding plans are all done and dusted; everything is set for tomorrow.
- Once the exam was over, he felt the stress was done and dusted.
- The deal was signed, and everything is now done and dusted.
- Once the paperwork was finalized, the sale was done and dusted.
- After weeks of preparation, the event is done and dusted.
- With the renovation complete, the house is finally done and dusted.
Synonyms with Short Explanation
- Completed: Fully finished, no further work is necessary.
- Settled: Resolved or concluded, with no remaining issues.
- Concluded: Ended or brought to a close.
- Wrapped up: Used to express that something has been completed or finalized.
- Finalized: Made definite or complete, often after much consideration or negotiation.
Related Words with Short Explanation
- Finished: Fully completed, similar to “done and dusted.”
- Resolved: Refers to the resolution or conclusion of a problem or matter.
- Cleared: Indicates that a task or obligation has been completed or removed.
- Tied up: Used to describe something that is completed and all details have been dealt with.
- Accomplished: Refers to successfully completing a task or goal.
More Matches with Short Explanation
- Done for: Used to describe something that is finished or no longer functioning, similar to “done and dusted.”
- Over and done: Refers to something that has been completed and is finished.
- Closed: Indicates that a matter has been concluded or finished.
- Out of the way: Used to describe something that has been completed or resolved, often so that it no longer requires attention.
- No more to be done: Used to emphasize that everything has been completed and no further action is needed.
Antonyms
- Ongoing: Refers to something that is still in progress and not yet completed.
- Unfinished: Describes something that has not been completed or finalized.
- In progress: Indicates that something is still happening and has not been concluded.
- Pending: Describes a task or issue that has yet to be completed or decided.
- Unresolved: Refers to something that remains unsettled or incomplete.
