A: What do you think of my new business plan? B: I hate to rain on your parade, but lots of people have tried that strategy and it hasn’t worked yet. Note: This expression conjures up the image of a downpour ruining a celebration such as a parade. Used figuratively, it means to “disappoint or discourage someone by ruining or criticizing their plans or aspirations.” This expression has been used since the 1900s. |