Under the Weather – Meaning and Examples
Have you ever woken up with a headache, a sore throat, or just a general feeling that you’re not 100%—but not sick enough to stay in bed all day? In English, you can say you’re under the weather. This gentle, widely used idiom means you’re feeling unwell, usually in a mild or temporary way. It’s the perfect phrase for those “off” days when you’re not quite yourself.
What Does “Under the Weather” Mean?
“Under the weather” means to feel slightly ill, unwell, or not at your best—physically or sometimes emotionally. It’s not for serious illness (like the flu or a broken leg), but for minor issues like a cold, fatigue, nausea, or stress. Think of it like being “under” a cloud of discomfort—still functioning, but not feeling sunny.
When to Use It
Use “under the weather” in casual or polite conversations:
• When explaining why you’re tired or quiet: “Sorry I’m not talkative—I’m a bit under the weather.”
• In work or school settings: “I’ll work from home today; I’m feeling under the weather.”
• When declining plans gently: “I can’t go out tonight—I’m under the weather.”
It’s neutral and universally understood—great for speaking, texts, or emails. Avoid it in medical contexts; it’s conversational, not clinical.
Example Sentences
- She came to the meeting but looked under the weather.
- I’ve been under the weather all week—must be allergies.
- He canceled the trip because he was feeling under the weather.
- “Are you okay?” “Yeah, just a little under the weather.”
Mini Dialogue
Alex: “You’re leaving early?”
Jamie: “Yeah, I’m feeling under the weather. I think I’ll go home and rest.”
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t use “under the weather” for serious or chronic illness—it’s for temporary, mild discomfort. Also, never say “under weather” without “the”—it’s always “under the weather.” And remember: it’s an idiom, so it has nothing to do with actual rain or storms!
❌ Don’t say: “I’m under weather today.”
✅ Do say: “I’m feeling under the weather.”
✅ Do say: “She’s been under the weather since last weekend.”
Practice Tip
Next time you’re feeling a bit off—tired, queasy, or just “blah”—say: “I’m under the weather.” Use it to politely explain your state without oversharing. This builds natural, soft-spoken fluency.
Final Note
Now you can use “under the weather” to describe mild illness with grace and understatement—just like native speakers do. It’s a phrase full of quiet honesty, used daily in homes, offices, and texts. Keep listening for it in shows, calls, and casual chats. You’re not just learning English—you’re learning how people share discomfort without drama. Keep going—you’ve got this!
