What does “Rain on Someone’s Parade” mean?
"Rain on someone's parade" means to spoil someone's plans or ruin their enjoyment.
What context can I use the in?
Example
Don't rain on my parade! I'm really excited about this trip.
Example
He always finds a way to rain on someone's parade with his negative comments.
Example
I don't want to be the one to rain on your parade, but I heard the concert got canceled
Is “Rain on Someone’s Parade” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Rain on Someone’s Parade” 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 “Rain on Someone’s Parade” effectively in context?
You can use "Rain on Someone's Parade" to express the idea of spoiling someone's plans or ruining their enjoyment. It is often used in a figurative sense to describe someone who brings negativity or discouragement to a situation. For example, if a friend is excited about a new job opportunity, but you have doubts and try to discourage them, they might say, 'Don't rain on my parade! I'm really excited about this opportunity.'
- 1Celebration
She was so excited about her promotion, but her jealous coworker couldn't help but rain on her parade with negative comments.
- 2Travel
He had been looking forward to his vacation for months, but the bad weather rained on his parade and ruined his plans.
- 3Achievement
After winning the competition, he expected praise and support from his friends, but they chose to rain on his parade by pointing out his mistakes.
Similar phrases to “Rain on Someone’s Parade”:
Someone who ruins the fun or enjoyment of others
Example
She's always such a killjoy, constantly finding something to complain about.
Buzzkill
Something or someone that ruins a fun or exciting atmosphere
Example
The rain was a real buzzkill for our outdoor picnic.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Rain on Someone’s Parade” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Rain on Someone's Parade" is unknown.
Is “Rain on Someone’s Parade” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Rain on Someone's Parade" is a common idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to express their frustration when someone spoils their plans or dampens their enthusiasm.
What tone does “Rain on Someone’s Parade” have?
"Rain on Someone's Parade" conveys a tone of disappointment and frustration. It is often used to express annoyance towards someone who is being negative or discouraging.
Can “Rain on Someone’s Parade” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Rain on Someone's Parade" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a versatile expression that conveys the idea of spoiling someone's plans or ruining their enjoyment. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations, meetings, 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, 'Don't rain on my parade with your negativity!' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Please, don't "rain on my parade"!' to express frustration.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- discourage
- dishearten
- spoil the fun
- dampen someone's spirits
- bring someone down
