The phrase "right as rain"

Posted by ESC on January 19, 2001

In Reply to: The phrase "right as rain" posted by Leonard Klepner on January 19, 2001

: Does anyone know the origin of the phrase "right as rain"?

: Also, is there such a phrase or usage as "wrong as rain"? If so, what is the latter phrase's origin?

: Thanks.

I've never heard "wrong as rain." RIGHT AS RAIN - "Definitely correct; just the way it should be. It could just as well be 'right as clouds' or any number of other things, but 'rain' it is, doubtless because of the allure of alliteration. The expression has had neavy work since the late 19th century, but an example from 1909 (in Max Beerbohm's 'Yet Again') has the virtue of offerin two cliches in one sentence: 'He looked.'fit as a fiddle', or 'right as rain'.'" From The Dictionary of Cliches by James Rogers (Ballantine Books, New York, 1985).

Search the Discussion Forum under "rain" for more information.

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