English Idiom Meanings Under the Weather Definition and Exercises for Students
Under the Weather Definition, Meaning, and Examples
The phrase “under the weather” is used to describe a person who is feeling unwell or experiencing a slight illness. It suggests that the person is not in their best physical condition and may be experiencing symptoms such as fatigue, feeling ‘poorly’, or a mild sickness.
Definition
To feel unwell or slightly ill
Example Sentence
I won’t be able to attend the party tonight. I’m feeling a bit under the weather.
Example Conversation
- John: Are you okay? You seem tired.
- Amy: Yeah, I’m just a little under the weather today.
Example Synonmys
Feeling off, not at one’s best, slightly sick, a bit under par, out of sorts.
Origin of Under the Weather
The exact origin of the phrase “under the weather” is uncertain. It is believed to have nautical roots, where sailors used the phrase to describe the feeling of seasickness or being adversely affected by bad weather conditions while at sea. Over time, the expression extended to refer to general feelings of illness or being unwell.
Use of Feeling a Bit Under the Weather
“Feeling a bit under the weather” is an alternative way of expressing the idiom “under the weather.” It emphasizes that the person is experiencing a mild level of illness or discomfort.
Cultural Use
Perhaps the primary use of under the weather would be when a person is at work but not feeling well, or not at work when they are not sick and need a doctor.
When your performance is not at its peak you would say you are ‘off your game’, under par’, ‘not at your best’, or ‘feeling off’ rather than feeling under the weather. Perhaps if you were feeling a bit weak or couldn’t concentrate because you didn’t feel fit and healthy, you might say you were ‘under the weather.
Finally, if you are out of sorts then that is more when your mind is not right, if you are agitated about something, can’t focus, or just having a day when everything is not working out for you. If one thing goes wrong then you start to panic then other things go wrong and you are then ‘out of sorts’.
Under the Weather or Feeling Off?
Why Do People Say “Under the Weather”?
Nature Idioms
Interested in other weather-related idioms?
Under the Weather Practice Questions & Exercises
Exercise 1
What does the phrase “under the weather” mean? a) Feeling sad b) Feeling unwell or sick c) Feeling excited
Which of the following is an example of someone feeling under the weather? a) Jane is happy and energetic. b) Mark has a headache and a runny nose. c) Sarah is enjoying a sunny day at the beach.
True or False: Feeling under the weather means feeling sad or disappointed.
Complete the sentence: “I can’t go to school today because I’m feeling ____________.” a) Happy b) Under the weather c) Energetic
Choose the synonym of “under the weather”: a) Tired b) Excited c) Hungry
Can you use the phrase “under the weather” to describe feeling unwell? a) Yes b) No
What is the opposite of feeling under the weather? a) Feeling great b) Feeling tired c) Feeling angry
Exercise 2
Fill in the blanks with the correct form of the verb in parentheses.
- She __________ under the weather and couldn’t come to work yesterday. (feel)
- We __________ a bit _________ today, so we decided to stay home. (be / under the weather)
- How long have you __________ under the weather? (feel)
- They __________ under the weather last week, but they’re feeling better now. (be)
Exercise 3
Choose the correct verb form to complete the sentences.
- She has been __________ under the weather for a few days now. (feeling / felt)
- How long were you __________ under the weather? (feeling / felt)
- I’m afraid I’ll __________ under the weather tomorrow. (feel / be feeling)
- They __________ under the weather during their vacation. (felt / were feeling)
Exercise 4
- What does the idiom “under the weather” mean?
- Give an example sentence using the phrase “under the weather.”
- Is feeling under the weather a serious illness?
- Can you use “feeling off” as a synonym for “under the weather”?
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FAQ Section
What does it mean to be under the weather?
The phrase “under the weather” means feeling slightly ill or unwell, often due to a cold or general malaise. It originates from maritime language, where sailors would retreat below deck during bad weather to recover from sickness.
What is an example of feeling under the weather?
For example, you might say, “I’m sorry I can’t visit today; I’m a bit under the weather.” This implies feeling sick or unwell without specifying a serious condition.
How to use under the weather?
You can use this idiom when discussing minor illness or discomfort. Example: “Whether you’re feeling ill or just need rest, taking a break when under the weather can help you feel better.”
What is another idiom for under the weather?
Other idioms that describe feeling sick include “feeling off-color,” “out of sorts,” and “down for the count.”
Useful Information on the English Phrase and Idiom “Feel Under the Weather”
Origin and Meaning
- The phrase traces back to maritime traditions when sailors who felt ill would retreat below deck to recover. This idiom reflects the idea that weather conditions could influence health, a belief that continues today.
How to Use This Expression Correctly
- The phrase is used informally in spoken and written English language contexts.
- Example: “Sorry, I can’t make it to work; I’m feeling a bit under the weather.”
Learning Idiomatic Vocabulary
- Understanding idioms like “under the weather” can enhance your English vocabulary and help you explore how language reflects daily life and cultural ideas.
- Browsing an English dictionary or teaching resources can provide examples and translations of similar expressions.
Related Idioms and Synonyms
- Expressions like “feeling off-color” or “out of sorts” represent similar ideas of minor illness.
Tips to Help When Feeling Slightly Ill
- If you’re feeling sick, simple actions like staying hydrated, resting, and avoiding stressful activities can help.
- Various sources, including medical advice websites, suggest that being aware of early signs like fatigue and cold symptoms is key
