# save for a rainy day

idiom · CEFR B1

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/save-for-a-rainy-day
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To keep some money back for possible expensive problems in the future.

## Examples

- I put some money away to save for a rainy day.
- She keeps a small portion of her salary in a separate account to save for a rainy day.
- Despite the temptation to spend his bonus on luxuries, he chose to save for a rainy day, knowing that financial stability requires careful planning for future uncertainties.

## Origin

Attested since the 16th century — the comedy The Bugbears (c. 1565) has 'store up against a rainy day'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.