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Region: UK | Usage example: The delay gave us a silver lining after we found better data.

Silver lining

Meaning

A positive aspect of a negative situation.

Usage

Used to focus on benefits amid drawbacks.

Origin & History

Origin notes can vary by region and source; this page gives the commonly reported explanation and usage context.

Cloud metaphor from the phrase 'every cloud has a silver lining.'

Early 19th-century English proverb.

Related Idioms

Every cloud has a silver lining

Find the positive in a bad situation.

Silver bullet

A simple solution to a difficult problem

Born with a silver spoon

Born into privilege.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.