Meaning
To feel a little sick or not perfectly healthy.
Cultural Background
In the UK, this phrase is used very frequently to avoid 'making a fuss' about health. Americans often use this to excuse themselves from social events without needing to explain symptoms. Australians use this in a very casual, understated way, often even when they are quite sick. Similar to the US, it is a polite way to maintain social harmony.
Keep it short
You don't need to explain your symptoms after using this phrase.
Polite excuse
It is the perfect way to say 'no' to an invitation.
Meaning
To feel a little sick or not perfectly healthy.
Keep it short
You don't need to explain your symptoms after using this phrase.
Polite excuse
It is the perfect way to say 'no' to an invitation.
Test Yourself
Fill in the blank with the correct phrase.
I'm sorry, I can't join the party tonight. I'm feeling a bit _________.
The phrase 'under the weather' is the correct idiom for feeling sick.
Which sentence is correct?
Choose the most natural sentence.
While 'I am under the weather' is okay, 'I am feeling under the weather' is the most common and natural usage.
Match the situation to the best response.
Your boss asks why you are late.
This is the appropriate way to explain a delay due to illness.
🎉 Score: /3
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
3 exercisesI'm sorry, I can't join the party tonight. I'm feeling a bit _________.
The phrase 'under the weather' is the correct idiom for feeling sick.
Choose the most natural sentence.
While 'I am under the weather' is okay, 'I am feeling under the weather' is the most common and natural usage.
Your boss asks why you are late.
This is the appropriate way to explain a delay due to illness.
🎉 Score: /3
Frequently Asked Questions
2 questionsNo, it is only for minor illnesses like colds or fatigue.
No, it is casual and informal.
Related Phrases
Coming down with something
similarStarting to feel sick.
Feeling off
similarNot feeling like yourself.
Under the weather
synonymSlightly ill.
Out of sorts
similarFeeling slightly unwell or irritable.
