parade passed someone by

Definitions

1. Someone missed out on the joys of life, an opportunity, or popular movement
   idiomatic
2. Someone no longer has what it takes to remain competetive and thus has no future in a particular role.
   idiomatic

Examples

“Have⟳ you stopped going out in the evening altogether because you don't want⟳ to disrupt your child's "routine"? Has the parade passed you by?”

“Before the parade passes by / I've gotta get⟳ some life back into my life / I'm ready to move⟳ out in front / I've had enough of just passing by life / With the rest⟳ of them / With the best of them / I can hold⟳ my head up high / For I've got a goal again / I've got a drive⟳ again / I wanna feel⟳ my heart coming alive again / Before the parade passes by”

“In The Five Pennies [1959 Film biography of Red Nichols, directed by Melville Shavelson] ...One young man says, "My father told me all about you.... He said you were smart to get⟳ out of the business before the parade passed you by." Outraged at this slight and intent on proving that he is still musically potent, Nichols is conveniently handed a cornet by his wife, who sees an opportunity to bring⟳ him back to the music after many years.”

CEFR level