ˈsɪl.vər ˈlaɪ.nɪŋ
Colors
neutral
beginner
- Literally:
- a lining made of silver
What does "silver lining" mean?
- a positive aspect of an otherwise bad situation
- a hopeful or comforting element in a difficult experience
Examples
- Losing that job was tough, but the silver lining was that I found a much better one.
- The silver lining of the pandemic was that many families spent more time together.
- I know it hurts now, but try to find the silver lining.
Origin
From John Milton's 1634 masque 'Comus': 'Was I deceived, or did a sable cloud / Turn forth her silver lining on the night?'
How to use it
Very commonly used to offer consolation or encouragement. Often paired with 'every cloud has a silver lining.'
Similar expressions
bright side
upside
ray of hope
Opposites
downside
dark cloud
Related idioms
- black and white
clearly defined with no ambiguity
- grey area
a situation or topic that is unclear or not well-defined
- give the green light
to give permission or approval to proceed
- black sheep
a member of a group who is considered different or disreputable
- golden opportunity
an excellent or ideal chance that may not come again
- white lie
a harmless or small lie told to avoid hurting someone's feelings
Use it in a practice answer
Try "silver lining" in a CELPIP-style Speaking or Writing task. The AI feedback tells you whether your word choice worked.