live in the past

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

When the time comes, these words from Ms. Antonetta will merit consideration: “Programs of euthanasia and sterilization don’t just live in the past, terrible but finished. Their aftershocks are terrible and here.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 24, 2025

"I've always been looking to the future. I don't live in the past."

From BBC • Jan. 3, 2023

“It’s one that I’ll always cherish,” he said, “but I think if you live in the past, you’re going to get exposed in the present and so were not going to do that.”

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 2, 2022

“True or not, I like that attitude. … If you sulk or you live in the past or you’re not staying in the moment, then you’re finished.”

From Seattle Times • May 26, 2022

I druther live in the past than dwell on that part of the future.

From "Cold Sassy Tree" by Olive Ann Burns