What does “Off colour” mean?
"Off colour" means not feeling well or looking pale or sick.
What context can I use the in?
Example
She's been feeling off colour all day.
Example
He looked a bit off colour when I saw him this morning.
Example
I think I'm coming down with something, I've been feeling off colour lately
Is “Off colour” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Off colour” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “Off colour” effectively in context?
You can use "Off Colour" to describe someone who is not feeling well or looking pale or sick. It is often used to talk about physical health. For example, if a friend looks unwell, you might say, 'You seem a bit off colour, are you okay?'
- 1Health
She's been feeling off colour all day.
- 2Observation
He looked a bit off colour when I saw him this morning.
- 3Self-assessment
I think I'm coming down with something, I've been feeling off colour lately.
Similar phrases to “Off colour”:
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Off colour” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Off Colour" is unknown.
Is “Off colour” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Off Colour" is a common expression in everyday conversation. People often use it to describe their own or someone else's physical condition when they are not feeling well or looking pale or sick.
What tone does “Off colour” have?
"Off Colour" conveys a tone of concern and empathy. It is often used to show care for someone's well-being or to express one's own discomfort or illness.
Can “Off colour” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Off Colour" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a versatile expression that describes physical health. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as medical discussions or professional correspondence.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'She's been feeling off colour all day.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Feeling a bit "off colour" today.' to imply not feeling well.
