What does “Tears before bedtime” mean?
"Tears before bedtime" means crying or getting upset before going to bed.
What context can I use the in?
Example
The toddler had tears before bedtime after his favorite toy broke.
Example
She always has tears before bedtime when she's tired.
Example
The tears before bedtime were a result of a scary dream
Is “Tears before bedtime” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Tears before bedtime” 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 “Tears before bedtime” effectively in context?
You can use "Tears before bedtime" to describe someone who is crying or getting upset before going to bed. It implies that the person is experiencing emotions or difficulties that are causing them distress at night. For example, if a child is crying because they don't want to go to bed, you might say, 'He always has tears before bedtime when he's tired.'
- 1Childhood
The toddler had tears before bedtime after his favorite toy broke.
- 2Fatigue
She always has tears before bedtime when she's tired.
- 3Dreams
The tears before bedtime were a result of a scary dream.
Similar phrases to “Tears before bedtime”:
Nighttime meltdowns
Emotional outbursts or tantrums that occur before bedtime
Example
The child had one of their nighttime meltdowns again.
Pre-sleep tears
Crying or getting upset before falling asleep
Example
He often has pre-sleep tears when he's feeling overwhelmed.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Tears before bedtime” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Tears before bedtime" is unknown.
Is “Tears before bedtime” common in everyday conversation?
The phrase "Tears before bedtime" is not very common in everyday conversation. It is more likely to be used in informal contexts or when talking about children's behavior.
What tone does “Tears before bedtime” have?
"Tears before bedtime" conveys a tone of sympathy or understanding. It suggests that the person experiencing the tears is going through a difficult time or feeling overwhelmed.
Can “Tears before bedtime” be used in informal and formal settings?
The phrase "Tears before bedtime" is informal and is typically used in casual conversations or when discussing children's behavior. It may not be appropriate for formal or professional settings.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
The phrase "Tears before bedtime" is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'The child had tears before bedtime because they were scared of the dark.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Tears before bedtime again!' to express frustration or empathy.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- bedtime crying
- nighttime sobbing
- evening emotional outbursts
- sleep-time distress
Antonyms
- peaceful bedtime
- calm sleep routine
- relaxed evening
