English idiom · neutral · spoken & written · BrE & AmE

under a cloud: meaning and examples

under a cloud means regarded with suspicion or disapproval.

Memory hook: Build a clear mental picture from “under a cloud” and connect it to this meaning: regarded with suspicion or disapproval.

How to use “under a cloud”

Common mistake: Treat “under a cloud” as a fixed expression. Notice its exact word order in the examples.

Learn it in context

This expression belongs to Lesson 16, where you can compare it with other idioms about weather and practise it interactively.

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