Chase Rainbows

chase rainbows ( idiom)
/ˈtʃeɪsɪŋ ˈreɪnˌboʊz/

Meaning

• pursuing an unrealistic or impossible goal.
• trying to achieve something that is unattainable or unlikely to happen.
• engaging in a fruitless quest, often with high hopes but little chance of success.
• striving for something that is beautiful or appealing but ultimately unachievable.
• wasting time and effort on something that is fanciful or illusory.

Example Sentences

1. Those who only chase rainbows end up disappointed.
2. He chases rainbows every time he thinks he can win the lottery.
3. He's been chasing rainbows, thinking he'll become a millionaire overnight.
4. Don't waste your time chasing rainbows; focus on achievable goals.
5. She spent years chasing rainbows, hoping to find the perfect job that doesn't exist.
6. Chasing rainbows will only lead to disappointment and frustration.
7. Instead of chasing rainbows, try setting more realistic objectives.
8. She chased rainbows all through her twenties, only to realize her dreams were unattainable.

Origin and History

Mythical Roots and Symbolism

The idiom "chasing rainbows" is deeply rooted in ancient mythology and folklore, where rainbows were often seen as symbols of hope, luck, and the unattainable. In many cultures, rainbows were linked to mythical creatures, such as leprechauns or unicorns, believed to hide their treasures at the rainbow's end. This symbolism contributed to the idea that chasing a rainbow was a futile endeavor, representing the pursuit of something that could never be attained. The phrase eventually evolved to describe any unrealistic or impractical pursuit.

Evolution Over Time

While the exact origin of the phrase remains unclear, it has been in use for centuries, gradually adapting its meaning to encompass a broader range of unattainable goals or dreams. For instance, in literature, characters have been described as "chasing rainbows" when pursuing impossible dreams, such as in F. Scott Fitzgerald's "The Great Gatsby," where Gatsby's obsession with winning back Daisy Buchanan is portrayed as chasing an impossible dream. The idiom is also commonly used in everyday language to advise against pursuing impractical or unrealistic goals.

Cultural and Linguistic Adaptation

The phrase "chasing rainbows" has been embraced across various cultures, particularly in Western societies, where it is often seen as a metaphor for the pursuit of dreams, regardless of their attainability. In contrast, some Asian cultures may emphasize practicality and the achievement of tangible results, viewing the act of chasing rainbows as a less desirable pursuit. Despite these cultural differences, the phrase has maintained its core meaning of representing futile or unattainable pursuits.

Earliest Printed Record

The oldest printed record of the idiom "chasing rainbows" was traced back to 1806 in the poem titled The Chase by Edward Rushton. In this poem, the phrase is used metaphorically to describe the futile pursuit of unattainable goals. This discovery predates other known references and highlights the idiom's early use in literature. It reads:

"Thus the world's a wide forest, abounding with game,
Where we dash with wild hope, after wealth, pleasure, fame,
For as children chase rainbows, so day after day,
Tho' we find all delusion, we cry, hark away!"

Modern Usage and Variations

Today, the phrase is widely recognized and continues to be used in various contexts, from everyday conversation to literary works. Variations of the phrase, such as "chase a rainbow" and "running after rainbows," are also common and convey similar meanings. These variations emphasize the ongoing relevance of the idiom in describing the pursuit of unattainable goals, regardless of the context in which they are used.

By understanding the rich historical and cultural background of "chasing rainbows," one can better appreciate the depth and significance of this timeless idiom.

Synonyms