Understanding ‘Come Rain or Shine’: An Idiom for All Weathers

Meaning of ‘Come Rain or Shine’

The phrase ‘Come Rain or Shine’ is a vow of reliability. It means that a person will do something no matter what happens, even if it rains or the sun blazes. It’s about keeping your word or commitment through good times and bad, much like the postal service delivering mail in all weather conditions.

The Origin Story of the Idiom

While the exact origin of ‘Come Rain or Shine’ is a bit cloudy, it’s widely believed to have originated in America during the 19th century. The phrase embodies the steadfastness required in a country where weather could not be allowed to disrupt the essential tasks of daily life, especially in the context of farming and postal services.

How to Use ‘Come Rain or Shine’ in Conversations

This idiom is versatile and can be used in both formal and informal settings. You might assure your boss that a project will be completed ‘come rain or shine’, or promise a friend that you’ll stand by them ‘come rain or shine’. It’s a way to show that your commitment is as certain as the changing weather.

Examples of ‘Come Rain or Shine’ in Everyday Use

To give you a better feel for the idiom, here are some ways ‘Come Rain or Shine’ can be woven into everyday speech:

• My grandmother, bless her heart, visited my grandfather’s grave every Sunday, come rain or shine.
• The local football team plays every weekend, come rain or shine, keeping the community spirit alive.
• I will finish this marathon, come rain or shine, because I’ve trained so hard for it.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can ‘Come Rain or Shine’ be used in a literal sense?

Absolutely! It can be used to literally mean that an event will happen regardless of the weather conditions.

Is ‘Come Rain or Shine’ a positive expression?

It generally carries a positive connotation of reliability and steadfastness.

How can ESL learners practice using idioms like this?

One of the best ways is to use them in sentences or in writing prompts, and to listen for them in English-language media.

Are there similar idioms in other languages?

Yes, many languages have expressions that convey the same message of commitment regardless of circumstances.

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This piece reflects the expertise of Metkagram’s team of linguists. Explore our language learning innovations on our LinkedIn page.

Originally published at https://metkagram.app.