a rainy day
a rainy day (metaphor)
/ə ˈreɪ.ni deɪ/
Meaning
- Denotes a period of hardship or necessity.
- Refers to a future time of trouble or difficulty.
- Signifies a time of financial difficulty or a period of challenge.
- Symbolizes emotional turbulence and intensified longing.
- Indicates a day characterized by rainfall. (literal meaning)
Variants
- for a rainy day
- on a rainy day
- save it for a rainy day
- put aside for a rainy day
- set something by for a rainy day
- keep something for a rainy day
- in case of a rainy day
- preparing for a rainy day
- a metaphorical rainy day
- rainy-day fund
Example Sentences
- She always keeps a little extra money for a rainy day, just in case something unexpected happens.
- On a rainy day, I love staying in with a good book and a hot cup of tea.
- Don’t spend all your birthday money now—save it for a rainy day.
- They’ve put aside for a rainy day some emergency cash in case one of them loses their job.
- Grandpa used to set something by for a rainy day to help with future troubles.
- We’re keeping something for a rainy day when we really need it.
- She bought insurance in case of a rainy day when her health might fail.
- He’s been preparing for a rainy day by building up his savings and cutting expenses.
- After losing her job, she finally understood what her father meant by a metaphorical rainy day.
- They dipped into their rainy-day fund to cover the unexpected car repair.
Origin and History
The phrase “save for a rainy day” has long been a staple in the English language, advising prudence and foresight. Its origins, steeped in history and metaphor, offer a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of language and cultural wisdom.
Earliest Recorded Usage
The earliest known appearance of this idiom dates back to the mid-16th century in Britain. Specifically, it is found in the play The Bugbears, performed around 1561. In this work, a character queries, “Wold he haue me kepe nothing against a raynye day?“—translating to “Would he have me keep nothing for a rainy day?” This usage underscores the longstanding association between inclement weather and the need for preparedness.
Metaphorical Interpretation
The metaphor of a “rainy day” symbolizing challenging or adverse times is intuitive. Historically, rainy days hindered outdoor labor and daily activities, especially in agrarian societies where work was predominantly weather-dependent. Thus, the notion of saving resources during favorable conditions to tide over during unfavorable ones became a prudent strategy. This metaphorical linkage between bad weather and hard times has been a consistent theme since the late 1500s.
Cultural and Literary References
Beyond The Bugbears, the idiom has permeated various literary works and cultural narratives. Notably, Benjamin Franklin, renowned for his adages promoting thrift and foresight, echoed similar sentiments in his writings. While not directly quoting the phrase, his emphasis on frugality and preparation aligns with the idiom’s core message.
Evolution and Modern Usage
Over the centuries, “save for a rainy day” has transcended its literal origins to embody a broader principle of financial prudence and readiness for unforeseen challenges. Its enduring relevance is evident in its widespread use across various cultures and contexts, continually serving as a reminder of the timeless value of preparedness.
About the Author
Elena Jones holds a PhD in Education from Harvard University. She has extensive experience teaching at both the K–12 and university levels, with a particular focus on English as a Second Language. Elena has dedicated her career to advancing educational practices, and she has contributed to numerous educational journals.
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