Idiom
off colour
Meanings
Looking or feeling slightly ill; not in normal good health.
Definition
If someone is off colour, they look or feel slightly ill and not their usual healthy self.
Off colour means looking pale, weak, or unwell, often because of a minor illness. It is commonly used to describe a person’s appearance or how they feel rather than a serious medical condition. In American English, people more often say “under the weather,” but “off colour” is still understood.
Examples
- I’m feeling a bit off colour today, so I’m going to stay home.
- She looked off colour after lunch and decided to lie down.
- If you’re off colour, you should get some rest and drink water.
- He’s been off colour all week, but he says it’s just a cold.
More at B2 level
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