How to Understand and Use “We’ll Cross That Bridge When We Come to It” in IELTS

The phrase “We’ll cross that bridge when we come to it” is an idiomatic expression in English that denotes dealing with a problem only when it arises, rather than worrying about it beforehand. Understanding idioms like this one can significantly boost your IELTS score, especially in the Speaking and Writing sections where expressive language is valued. This article breaks down the idiom, provides multiple examples, and explores its relevance and application in the IELTS exam.

Synonyms and Antonyms

1. Deal with it later (dɪəl wɪð ɪt ˈleɪtər) – Identify and address the issue at a later time.
2. Not worry in advance (nɒt ˈwʌri ɪn ədˈvɑ:ns) – Avoiding concern about future problems.
3. Tackle it when it arises (ˈtækəl ɪt wɛn ɪt əˈraɪzɪz) – Addressing the issue as it happens.
4. Procrastinate (prəˈkræstɪneɪt) – Postponing action or thinking about the problem until it’s necessary.
5. Face it head-on (feɪs ɪt hɛd-ɒn) – Antonym: Dealing with problems immediately as they occur.

Meaning and Usage

What Does “We’ll Cross That Bridge When We Come to It” Mean?

The idiom “We’ll cross that bridge when we come to it” is used to convey the idea of not worrying about potential problems until they become actual problems. It emphasizes present focus and calm, pragmatic handling of issues.

Examples:

1. During a meeting discussion:

   • “What if we run out of budget by the end of the year?”
     • Response: “We’ll cross that bridge when we come to it.”
   • Analysis: This indicates that there is no need to worry about the budget right now; it will be dealt with if and when the issue arises.

2. In a family conversation:

   • “What will we do if it rains during our trip?”
     • Response: “We’ll cross that bridge when we come to it.”
   • Analysis: Here, the speaker is expressing that there’s no need to plan for rain until it actually happens, implying trust in handling the situation effectively when necessary.

Crossing Bridge When Come To It

Pronunciation Guide

Pronunciation (wiːl krɒs ðæt brɪʤ wɛn wiː kʌm tuː ɪt):

• We’ll: /wiːl/
• cross: /krɒs/
• that: /ðæt/
• bridge: /brɪʤ/
• when: /wɛn/
• we: /wiː/
• come: /kʌm/
• to: /tuː/
• it: /ɪt/

Multiple Meanings

The idiom has a consistent meaning revolving around postponing concern and action until absolutely necessary. It implicitly suggests an optimistic or pragmatic approach to problem-solving.

Analyzing the Idiom in IELTS Contexts

Speaking Section

In the IELTS Speaking section, idiomatic expressions like “We’ll cross that bridge when we come to it” can leave a strong impression on examiners, demonstrating fluency and natural language use.

Example Question:

• Describe a challenging situation you have faced and how you dealt with it.

Sample Answer:

• “During my final year project, my teammates were worried about potential delays. I told them, ‘We’ll cross that bridge when we come to it,’ and focused on immediate tasks. This strategy helped us stay calm and organized.”

Writing Section

In Writing Task 2, discussing certain topics might require expressions that convey a pragmatic approach to future problems.

Example Prompt:

• Some people believe that planning is crucial for success, while others think that spontaneity and flexibility lead to better outcomes. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Sample Essay Extract:

• “While meticulous planning can foresee and mitigate many issues, sometimes unforeseen challenges arise. In such cases, adopting a ‘We’ll cross that bridge when we come to it’ approach can encourage adaptability and problem-solving under pressure.”

Examples in IELTS Writing and Speaking

1. Task 1 Writing:

   • When presenting data trends:
     • “Although there is a decline expected, we’ll cross that bridge when we come to it, and adjustments can be made.”

2. Task 2 Writing:

   • When discussing international challenges:
     • “Nations often face unexpected dilemmas, but adhering to a ‘we’ll cross that bridge when we come to it’ mindset can promote cooperation and innovation.”

3. Speaking Part 1:

   • When discussing daily routines:
     • “I try not to stress about future issues. My motto is, ‘we’ll cross that bridge when we come to it.'”

4. Speaking Part 3:

   • When discussing societal issues:
     • “In dealing with social issues, a pragmatic approach is often best. For example, many leaders advocate for ‘we’ll cross that bridge when we come to it’ to handle sudden crises effectively.”

Related Idioms and Expressions

1. Burn that bridge when you get to it – Similar, but often with a negative connotation.

   • “Instead of worrying now, let’s burn that bridge when we get to it.”
   • Used to suggest decisiveness in future actions.

2. Don’t cross your bridges before you come to them – A more cautionary phrase advising against premature worry.

   • “There’s no point in stressing now, don’t cross your bridges before you get to them.”

3. One step at a time – Tackling tasks incrementally rather than all at once.

   • “Let’s take this project one step at a time, instead of overthinking the future steps.”

4. Let sleeping dogs lie – Avoiding the discussion or action on potential issues unless necessary.

   • “We shouldn’t address this hypothetical issue now; let sleeping dogs lie.”

Conclusion

Understanding and effectively using the idiom “We’ll cross that bridge when we come to it” can be a valuable asset in your IELTS preparation. It showcases your ability to use idiomatic expressions, enhancing your speaking and writing fluency. To master this idiom and others, it is crucial to practice incorporating them naturally into your conversations and essays. Remember, idioms not only add color to your language but also demonstrate a high level of proficiency.

Practice Prompt:

• Reflect on a situation where you had to decide whether to plan in advance or tackle an issue as it occurred. Discuss the outcome and your approach.

With consistent practice and awareness of phrases like these, you’ll be well-equipped to excel in your IELTS exam.