Learn English – Usage of “Rain check”

historymeaningphrase-usage

From time to time I hear the phrase rain check. For instance

I have to take a rain check on that.

I would say that means

I have to get back to you on that issue.

  • How do I use that phrase?
  • What does it mean?
  • Where does it come from?
  • I always think while hearing rain in rain check that it sounds a little different than the word rain. Is it pronounced differently? It sounds like rai-n check. But I could be wrong.

Best Answer

I to have to disagree with your interpretation of that phrase.

"I have to take a rain check" is not the same as saying "I have to get back to you."

For example, this would be wrong:

Where is that report I asked for?

I have to take a rain check. — Incorrect

To "take a rain check" is to turn down an offer that you expect (or ask, or demand) to be made available again at a later date. For example:

The item on sale is no longer in stock.

Can I get a rain check for that? — Correct

This is a more idiomatic usage:

Would you like to go out on my boat?

I'll have to take a rain check! — Correct
- or -
Can I get a rain check [for that]?

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