n. A metaphoric date after which something is considered to be outdated or no longer applicable.
2004
But the novel, though finished, was never submitted to a publisher. It needed a second draft but that gave way to the demands of a full-time job and family commitments. Eventually the theme, terrorism and women's liberation, reached its use-by date.
2004
This week Philips, the huge Dutch electronics company that invented the cassette and technology that led to the CD and DVD, announced the closure of its remaining VCR production lines.
Philips conceded the decision would cost it sales. People were comfortable with the technology, a spokesman said, but Philips believed it had reached its use-by date.
Philips conceded the decision would cost it sales. People were comfortable with the technology, a spokesman said, but Philips believed it had reached its use-by date.
1987 (earliest)
The Prime Minister, Mr Hawke, made it clear yesterday that he was prepared to break promises again — but added that he did not expect he would have to do so.
He was asked at the National Press Club whether he could give a "use by" date on his promises in future.
He was asked at the National Press Club whether he could give a "use by" date on his promises in future.
He also acknowledged a need for Parliamentary vetting of nominees for appointment to the Supreme Court of Canada. Now these and other similar pledges, having passed their "best before" date, are effectively being tossed down the toilet.