old story

Something that is not new or happens repeatedly. A CEO of a financial firm found guilty of fraud? It's an old story at this point. They always think they'll get away with it, too. Oh yeah, his crappy behavior when he's been drinking is an old story. We all just tend to avoid going out to bars with him.

old story, an

A common occurrence or excuse. For example, Karen's mood swings are an old story. [c. 1700] Also see same old story.