English · Emotions & Feelings
every cloud has a silver lining
/ˈev.ri klaʊd həz ə ˈsɪl.və ˈlaɪ.nɪŋ/
[/ˈev.ri klaʊd həz ə ˈsɪl.və ˈlaɪ.nɪŋ/]
hope amid trouble
Intermediatephrase
Definition
Every difficult situation has some positive aspect.
Example
Try not to despair about the cancelled trip; every cloud has a silver lining, after all.
Try not to despair about the cancelled trip; every cloud has a silver lining, after all.
Etymology
Inspired by Milton's 'Comus' (1634), which described a silver lining on a dark cloud.
How & Where It’s Used
Common as comforting encouragement during hardship.
Literary Heritage
Derives from Milton's masque 'Comus': 'A sable cloud turns forth her silver lining on the night.'