rain on someone's parade
Meaning
To spoil someone’s pleasure or plans by criticizing, discouraging, or bringing bad news; to dampen their enthusiasm.
Origin
From the idea that rain ruins a celebratory parade, the phrase became a metaphor for spoiling someone’s good time or optimism; attested in 20th-century American usage and later widespread.
Notes
Often mildly critical: implies you’re dampening someone’s excitement. Common in casual speech; can be softened with “I don’t mean to…” to avoid sounding rude.
Examples
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I hate to rain on your parade, but the venue was double-booked.
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I don’t want to rain on your parade, but that investment is pretty risky.
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She rained on our parade by pointing out that the forecast calls for rain all day.
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The boss rained on everyone’s parade by announcing the project was delayed.
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Don’t rain on my parade—I’m trying to be excited for once.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Fixed pattern: “rain on” + possessive/determiner + “parade” (someone’s/my/your/their). Verb inflects (rained/raining). Often used with “don’t mean to rain on your parade, but…”.
Synonyms
- spoil
- dampen someone's spirits
- burst someone's bubble
- throw cold water on something
- kill the vibe
Antonyms
- encourage
- cheer someone up
- boost morale
- support
- be happy for someone