Under a cloud

Meaning

The idiom "under a cloud" means to be unhappy, depressed, or feeling downcast due to a situation that seems bleak or unfavorable. It can also indicate that someone is experiencing a loss of hope, confidence, or motivation. The figurative meaning of this idiom suggests that one's mood and outlook are being negatively influenced by an external factor, such as a difficult decision or a personal problem.

Usage

• After hearing the news about her job loss, she felt like everything was "under a cloud" and couldn't see the light at the end of the tunnel.
• Despite knowing he had a talent for music, he never pursued it because he always felt "under a cloud" when he performed in front of others.
• The weather forecast predicted rain all day, and my plans to go hiking were "under a cloud."
• When her friend unexpectedly passed away, she was devastated and felt like everything was "under a cloud."
• After the disappointment of not getting into his dream school, he felt like everything in his life was "under a cloud" and wondered if things would ever improve.

Roots and History

The idiom "under a cloud" has its roots in medieval times when people believed that clouds were formed by supernatural powers or entities. They thought that a cloudy day could bring bad luck or misfortune, and that being "under a cloud" meant experiencing negative consequences due to these powers. Over time, the meaning of this idiom evolved to refer more specifically to one's emotions and mood, rather than supernatural events.

Synonyms in English

• Under a pall
• Gloomy
• Depressed
• Miserable
• Dejected

Synonyms in other languages

• French: "sous la pluie" (under the rain)
• Spanish: "bajo nubes" (under clouds)
• German: "unter dem Regen" (under the rain)
• Italian: "sotto il cielo nero" (under the black sky)
• Portuguese: "embaixo de nuvens" (under clouds)

Similar Idioms

• under siege

• up the ante

• upper hand