PhrasesHub

Come rain or shine

    Definitions

      • to emphasize reliability or steadfastness
        To express the idea that someone or something can be counted on, regardless of any obstacles or challenges that may arise. Can also be used to describe a consistent or unchanging behavior or attitude.

      • to convey persistence or determination
        To describe someone who is unwavering in their efforts or actions, especially in the face of adversity or difficult circumstances. Can also be used to describe a difficult or challenging situation that someone is determined to overcome.

      • to indicate inevitability or certainty
        To suggest that something is bound to happen, regardless of any external forces or circumstances. Can also be used to express the idea that a particular outcome is guaranteed or unavoidable.

    Examples of Come rain or shine

    • Sarah promised to meet her friend at the park, come rain or shine.

      This idiom means that Sarah will keep her promise to meet her friend, regardless of the weather conditions. 'Come rain or shine' is a figurative expression that implies Sarah's commitment and reliability, even in unfavorable circumstances. It suggests that Sarah's friendship is strong enough to withstand any obstacles, whether it's rain or shine.

    • The company's sales figures have been on the rise, come rain or shine.

      This idiom means that the company's sales have been increasing consistently, regardless of the economic conditions. 'Come rain or shine' is a metaphorical expression that implies the company's resilience and success, even in challenging circumstances. It suggests that the company's business strategy is robust enough to overcome any difficulties, whether it's a recession or a boom.

    • John is a true friend, come rain or shine.

      This idiom means that John is a reliable and trustworthy friend, regardless of the circumstances. 'Come rain or shine' is a figurative expression that implies John's dependability and loyalty, even in difficult situations. It suggests that John's friendship is a constant and stable force, whether it's rain or shine.

    • The team worked hard to achieve their goals, come rain or shine.

      This idiom means that the team was dedicated and persistent in pursuing their objectives, regardless of the obstacles. 'Come rain or shine' is a metaphorical expression that implies the team's determination and perseverance, even in challenging circumstances. It suggests that the team's efforts were consistent and focused, whether it's rain or shine.

    • The athlete trained rigorously to win the race, come rain or shine.

      This idiom means that the athlete prepared thoroughly to succeed in the competition, regardless of the weather conditions. 'Come rain or shine' is a figurative expression that implies the athlete's dedication and commitment, even in unfavorable circumstances. It suggests that the athlete's training was comprehensive and intensive, whether it's rain or shine.


    Conclusion

    The idiom "come rain or shine" is often used to emphasize the reliability, persistence, and inevitability of someone or something. It can be used in a variety of contexts to convey the idea of unwavering commitment, determination, and certainty.

    In the first meaning, the idiom is used to emphasize the dependability and steadfastness of a person or thing. It implies that they can be counted on, even when faced with challenges or obstacles. This can be applied to individuals, teams, or even inanimate objects, highlighting their consistent and reliable nature.

    In the second meaning, the idiom is used to convey persistence and determination in the face of adversity or difficult circumstances. It suggests that someone is unwavering in their efforts and will continue to push forward despite any challenges that may arise. This can also be applied to a difficult or challenging situation that someone is determined to overcome.

    In the final meaning, the idiom is used to indicate inevitability or certainty. It suggests that something is bound to happen, regardless of any external factors or forces. This can also be used to express the idea that a particular outcome is guaranteed or unavoidable.

    Origin of "Come rain or shine"

    The origin of this idiom can be traced back to the 16th century in England, where it was first used in a literal sense to describe the unpredictable weather. The phrase "come rain or come shine" was used to emphasize the idea that the weather would not deter someone from completing a task or making plans.

    Over time, the idiom evolved to take on a figurative meaning and became a popular phrase to describe unwavering commitment and determination. It has been used in literature and other forms of media, cementing its place in the English language as a common expression.

    The phrase has also been adapted in other languages, such as "rain or shine" in American English and "come hell or high water" in American and British English, both with similar meanings. Overall, the idiom reflects the human desire for reliability, persistence, and certainty in the face of uncertainty and challenges.