On cloud nine
/ɒn klaʊd naɪn/
Definition
The meaning: On cloud nine is an idiomatic expression used to describe a state of extreme happiness or bliss.
La signification: Cette expression idiomatique est utilisée pour décrire un état de bonheur ou de félicité intense.
Note: This phrase is often used informally in conversation to emphasize someone's joy, such as after receiving great news or achieving something significant.
Word Analysis
French synonyms
» Aux anges
» Sur un petit nuage
» Ravi
» Enchanté
» Comblé
[A: J'ai eu une promotion ! — B: Tu dois être sur un petit nuage !]
English synonyms
» Over the moon
» Walking on air
» In seventh heaven
» On top of the world
» Ecstatic
[A: She just won the championship! — B: She must be on cloud nine.]
Example Dialogue
Lebohang: "I just got accepted into my dream university!" Stutu: "You're on cloud nine, aren't you? That's amazing news!" Lebohang: "Absolutely! I still can't believe it." Stutu: "You deserve it. Congratulations!"
Etymology
Origin: The phrase "on cloud nine" is believed to have originated in the 20th century and is often associated with meteorology and weather classifications. The number nine was historically linked to the highest level of cloud formations, symbolising extreme happiness. Over time, the phrase became a common way to describe someone who is euphorically happy or blissfully content.
Audience
The phrase "on cloud nine" is informal and is typically used in casual conversations to express extreme happiness. It is commonly used in both spoken and written English, often in celebratory contexts.
When to use: Use this phrase to describe someone who is extremely happy or excited. For example: "She just got engaged, and she's on cloud nine!" It is not typically used in formal writing but is widely understood in everyday speech.
Dictionary Meaning
Cambridge says the expression means "to be extremely happy and excited." Here's my example of use:
A: "I hear that your team Matlama won the football championship."
B: "Yup! That's why I'm on cloud nine, my friend!"
News Snippet
"While Walid and his Wydad contingent are on cloud nine, Mosimane will likely have to fend off more criticism from former Ahly players in the near future."
Read the full article at The Daily Maverick
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WordReference
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» Synonyms⇄Antonyms–Contextual variations, etc.
Common Idioms and Expressions
On cloud nine: Feeling extremely happy or elated.
Example: "She just won the competition—she’s on cloud nine!"
Over the moon: A British expression meaning extremely happy or delighted.
Example: "He passed his final exams—he's over the moon!"
Walking on air: Feeling so happy that it seems like you’re floating.
Example: "Ever since she got engaged, she’s been walking on air."
In seventh heaven: A phrase meaning in a state of pure happiness or bliss.
Example: "After their dream vacation, they were in seventh heaven."
On top of the world: Feeling euphoric or extremely successful.
Example: "After getting promoted, he felt on top of the world."
So happy I could shit: Rude, humorous, expresses great joy. For friends only.
Example: "I won tickets for the Marvin Gaye concert! I'm so happy I could shit!"
Tickled pink: A lighthearted way to say very pleased or delighted.
Example: "She was tickled pink to receive the surprise gift."
Jumping for joy: Expressing great happiness, often in a physical way.
Example: "When they announced her name as the winner, she was jumping for joy."
Beaming with joy: Smiling radiantly due to happiness.
Example: "He was beaming with joy when he saw his newborn daughter."
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