As an English teacher, I have been creating content for both Korean learners and global English learners. This blog is where I share the expressions and idioms I cover in my lessons — and today’s expression is one you’ll need whenever you’re not feeling your best: “Under the weather.”
What does “under the weather” mean?
“Under the weather” means feeling sick or unwell.
You don’t have to be seriously ill — it just means you’re not feeling 100%. A little tired, a little sick, not quite yourself.
Real life examples:
- “I can’t come to work today — I’m feeling a little under the weather.”
- “She looked under the weather at the party last night.”
- “I’ve been under the weather all week — probably just a cold.”
- “Are you okay? You seem a bit under the weather today.”
- “He cancelled his plans because he was feeling under the weather.”
Where did this come from?
This expression originally came from sailing. When sailors felt seasick, they would go below deck to be sheltered from the bad weather. Being “under the weather” meant hiding from the storm — and feeling miserable while doing it.
Similar expressions:
- “Not feeling well” — simple and direct
- “Off color” — British English for feeling slightly ill
- “Out of sorts” — not feeling quite right
Quick recap:
Under the weather = feeling sick or unwell. Use it when you’re not seriously ill but just not at your best. It sounds natural and very native! 🤧
Want to learn more natural English?
Hi, I’m Yehs Sam 👋 I have been teaching English and creating content to help learners sound more natural and confident — for both Korean learners and global English learners.
🐢⚡ Turtle Zeus — Slow but surely, we get there.
Is there a slang word or English expression you’ve always wanted to know? Drop it in the comments below — I’d love to cover it in my next post!