What does “Wait for a raindrop in the drought” mean?

"Wait for a raindrop in the drought" means to wait for something that is unlikely or almost impossible to happen.

What context can I use the in?

Example

Don't hold your breath, it's like waiting for a raindrop in the drought.

Example

I've been waiting for him to apologize, but it's like waiting for a raindrop in the drought.

Example

Finding a parking spot in this area is like waiting for a raindrop in the drought

Is “Wait for a raindrop in the drought” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Wait for a raindrop in the drought” 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 “Wait for a raindrop in the drought” effectively in context?

You can use "Wait for a raindrop in the drought" to express the idea of waiting for something that is unlikely or almost impossible to happen. It emphasizes the frustration and futility of waiting for an event or outcome that is highly improbable. For example, if someone is waiting for a promotion at work but it seems unlikely, you might say, 'Don't hold your breath, it's like waiting for a raindrop in the drought.'

1Relationships
I've been waiting for him to apologize, but it's like waiting for a raindrop in the drought.
2Unlikely Events
Finding a parking spot in this area is like waiting for a raindrop in the drought.
3Improbable Outcomes
Don't get your hopes up, winning the lottery is like waiting for a raindrop in the drought.

Similar phrases to “Wait for a raindrop in the drought”:

Find a needle in a haystack

To search for something that is extremely difficult or impossible to find

Example

Trying to find my keys in this mess is like finding a needle in a haystack.

Catch lightning in a bottle

To achieve something that is highly unlikely or rare

Example

Winning the championship two years in a row is like catching lightning in a bottle.

Waiting for pigs to fly

To wait for something that is highly unlikely or impossible to happen

Example

I'll start exercising regularly when pigs fly.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Wait for a raindrop in the drought” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Wait for a raindrop in the drought" is unknown.

Is “Wait for a raindrop in the drought” common in everyday conversation?

The phrase "Wait for a raindrop in the drought" is not as common as some other idioms, but it is still used in everyday conversation. It may be more commonly used in certain contexts or among specific groups of people.

What tone does “Wait for a raindrop in the drought” have?

"Wait for a raindrop in the drought" conveys a tone of frustration and hopelessness. It is often used to express the feeling of waiting for something that is highly unlikely to happen.

Can “Wait for a raindrop in the drought” be used in informal and formal settings?

The phrase "Wait for a raindrop in the drought" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a figurative expression that conveys the idea of waiting for something improbable. You can use it in casual conversations with friends or family, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations or writing.

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 hold your breath, it's like waiting for a raindrop in the drought.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Still waiting for a raindrop in the drought...' to express frustration.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

waiting for a miracle
waiting for the impossible
waiting for the stars to align
waiting for a long shot
waiting for the moon to turn blue

Antonyms

expecting the inevitable
waiting for the sure thing
waiting for the guaranteed outcome
waiting for the expected result