What does the idiom "Rain on someone's parade" mean?
Although the meanings of the words in them do not make any sense when examined one by one, the word groups that are shaped according to the cultural roots of the language and that make sense as a whole are called idioms. Rain on someone's parade meaning, in what situations is it used?
Meaning of "Rain on someone's parade"
Meaning
The idiomatic phrase “rain on someone’s parade” is used to describe when an individual or group attempts to ruin someone else’s joy or enthusiasm. It is typically used to describe a situation where one person tries to spoil the mood or success of another with negative comments, criticism, or a pessimistic attitude. This phrase can also be used as advice to someone who is trying to be too positive or enthusiastic, which can be seen as annoying to others. Ultimately, the person “raining on the parade” is viewed as a wet blanket and their behavior is discouraged.
Etymology
The phrase “rain on someone’s parade” first appeared in print in the early 20th century, with one of the earliest appearances being in the 1909 edition of the New York Evening Mail. The origin of this phrase is often associated with a type of military procession called a “parade.” This procession is often seen as a joyous occasion, as it typically celebrates military victories or accomplishments. The phrase “rain on someone’s parade” implies that someone or something is attempting to spoil a joyous occasion, much like rain would spoil an outdoor parade.
Usage
The idiomatic phrase “rain on someone’s parade” is typically used as a reprimand against someone who is trying to ruin another person’s good mood or enthusiasm. It is a way of telling someone that they should stop trying to be overly pessimistic and negative, as their behavior is not welcomed or appreciated. This phrase is often used to describe an individual’s behavior, but it can also be used to describe a group or organization. It can be used in both formal and informal settings, and is commonly heard in casual conversations.
Example Sentences
- “Stop trying to rain on my parade, I'm just trying to be positive.”
- “The teacher was really rained on her student’s parade when she told them that their project wasn’t good enough.”
- “Don’t let the naysayers rain on your parade. You have
From Shakespeare to Social Media: The Evolution of English Idioms
English idioms have been around for centuries, with many originating from sources like literature, mythology, and everyday life. Shakespeare, for example, coined many phrases that are still used today, such as "break the ice" and "heart of gold." Over time, new idioms have emerged, with social media and popular culture providing rich sources of inspiration. For instance, the phrase "throwing shade" came into use in the 1990s thanks to ball culture, but has since been popularized by social media.
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