1173 Save for a rainy day - English Idioms

Explanation

To save money or resources for a time in the future when it might be unexpectedly needed, often due to hardship or emergency.

Origin

The origin is likely literal: rainy days often prevented outdoor work (especially agricultural) or caused problems, representing times of difficulty or inactivity where resources were needed but couldn't be earned.
Saving money during good times (sunny days) for bad times (rainy days) became a common piece of advice.
The phrase dates back to at least the 16th century.

Alternatives

Slang/Informal:

Stash cash
Build up a cushion
Have a backup plan (financially)

Milder/Formal:

Establish an emergency fund
Maintain liquid reserves
Provide for future contingencies
Set aside savings

Situational Appropriateness

Appropriate in almost all contexts, from informal chats to formal financial advice.

Misunderstanding Warnings

Unlikely to be misunderstood, the meaning is quite clear.

Examples

It's wise to put some money aside each month and save for a rainy day.
She used the money she'd saved for a rainy day to pay for the unexpected car repairs.
Don't spend all your bonus; save some for a rainy day.

Dialogue

Liam: I got a small inheritance. I'm thinking of buying a new TV.

Chloe: That's nice, but maybe you should save at least some of it for a rainy day?

Liam: You're probably right. It would be sensible to have an emergency fund.

Chloe: Exactly. You never know when you might need it.

Response Patterns

That's good advice.
I try to, but it's hard.
Absolutely, you never know what might happen.
How much do you think is enough to save?

Common Follow-up Questions/Actions

After someone advises saving for a rainy day:

One might ask How do you manage to save? or What kind of things count as a 'rainy day'?
Action involves actually setting aside money or resources.

After someone mentions using their rainy day fund:

One might ask Oh no, what happened? or express sympathy I'm glad you had something saved.

Conversation Starter

No. Typically used as advice or explanation within a conversation about finances or planning.

Intonation

Emphasis often falls on save and rainy day. SAVE for a RAINY DAY.
Usually said with a tone of prudence or advice.

Generation Differences

A very traditional piece of advice, well-understood by all generations. Maybe perceived as slightly old-fashioned but still relevant wisdom.

Regional Variations

Universally understood in English-speaking countries.

Run out of steam

🎲 Scratch someone's back

[1173] Save for a rainy day