Etymology Journal · O

Out of sight, out of mind

Meaning

When you do not see someone or something, you tend to forget about them. It implies that memory is heavily reliant on visual reminders.

Philosophical, blunt

I put all the junk food in the high cupboard, out of sight out of mind.
It is sad, but after she moved away, it was truly out of sight out of mind for most of her friends.
I hide my phone in the drawer while I study, out of sight out of mind.

This proverb has existed in various forms since at least the 16th century. It is a cynical but realistic observation about human memory.

Nationwide

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