rain or shine

Rain or shine is an idiom that means something will happen regardless of the weather conditions or any other obstacles. It conveys determination, reliability, and steadfastness. The idiom has its origins in the Bible, where it is written in Genesis 8:22: "While the earth remaineth, seedtime and harvest, and cold and heat, and summer and winter, and day and night shall not cease." This passage implies that certain events will happen without fail, regardless of the changing seasons and weather conditions.

The idiom gained popularity in the United States during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It was frequently used to emphasize the commitment and determination of individuals or groups to perform their tasks or attend events no matter the weather. The phrase became especially prevalent in relation to outdoor events such as parades, festivals, and rallies, where organizers would often guarantee that they would proceed regardless of the weather. This is where the related idiom "come hell or high water" comes into play - it signifies a similar determination to overcome obstacles, no matter how difficult they may be.

Today, the idiom "rain or shine" has become embedded in everyday language and is used in a wide variety of contexts. It is commonly employed in weather forecasts to convey the certainty of precipitation, ensuring that people are aware of what to expect regardless of the weather conditions. It is also used colloquially to express the resilience and determination of individuals who face challenges or obstacles, highlighting their unwavering commitment to their goals. In this sense, it is related to the idiom "weather the storm", which means to endure and overcome difficulties or adversities.

"Rain cats and dogs" is yet another related idiom that describes heavy rain. It is used to emphasize the intensity of a rainstorm. When it's raining cats and dogs, it means the rain is pouring down heavily, but the determination and commitment represented by the idiom "rain or shine" remain unwavering, regardless of the weather's intensity.