Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

the-genie-is-out-of-the-bottle

idiom
ðiː ˈdʒiːni ɪz aʊt əv ðə ˈbɒtl
Definition
A phrase used to indicate that a situation or development has become irreversible, often implying that a previously hidden or controlled situation is now out in the open and cannot be undone.
Examples
  • Once the news was leaked, the genie was out of the bottle and the project’s details could no longer be kept secret.
  • When he decided to tell the truth, he realized that the genie was out of the bottle, and there was no turning back.
Meaning
This idiom suggests that once something has been revealed or a decision has been made, it cannot be taken back or reversed. It often refers to a change that will have significant consequences.
Synonyms
  • The cat is out of the bag
  • No going back
  • No turning back