The Village Idiom

rain stopped play

The idiom "rain stopped play" means that an outdoor activity or event has been cancelled or interrupted due to bad weather, specifically rain.

Animals & nature · Filed under R

In a sentence

  • The cricket match was going well until the rain stopped play.
  • Our plans for a picnic were ruined when the rain stopped play.
  • The tennis tournament had to be postponed as the rain stopped play.

Where it comes from and how it is used

The idiom "rain stopped play" originated in the world of sports, specifically cricket, and is commonly used in British English. It describes a situation where a sporting event is interrupted or cancelled due to rain. The phrase suggests that the rain has caused a delay, preventing the game from continuing. Interestingly, there are similar idioms related to this phenomenon, such as "rain off" and "snow out".

Cricket, being a popular sport in the United Kingdom, often faces rain interruptions, especially due to the unpredictable weather. Matches are frequently stopped or abandoned due to rain, leading to players and spectators waiting for the weather to improve or the rain to completely stop. When this occurs, it is announced as "rain stopped play" in radio and television broadcasts, both informally among players and fans, as well as in official match reports.

Outside of the cricketing world, the idiom "rain stopped play" has gained popularity and is now used metaphorically in various contexts. It refers to any situation or event that is delayed, interrupted, or postponed due to unforeseen circumstances. For example, outdoor activities and events may be canceled due to bad weather, while technical issues can disrupt a performance or presentation. In these cases, the idiom captures the idea of an interruption or delay caused by external factors.

The use of these idioms in everyday language highlights their metaphorical extension beyond the world of sports. People intuitively understand the meaning behind these phrases and can relate them to their own experiences. They provide a concise and vivid way to describe unexpected interruptions or delays, adding color and depth to our conversations.

The idiom "rain stopped play" originated in the world of cricket but has expanded to be used in various contexts. It describes a situation where a sporting event or activity is interrupted or canceled due to rain. The idioms "rain off" and "snow out" are closely related expressions, conveying the same idea in different circumstances. These idioms have become part of our language, enabling us to communicate with clarity and conciseness.

Know an earlier use or a better origin story?Tell us.