Explore the phrase 'a month of Sundays,' its meaning, origins, and cultural significance. Understand how this expression denotes a long period and its usage in literature and everyday language.
A “month of Sundays” is an idiomatic expression used to denote an extended period of time, often perceived as excessively long. The phrase is typically employed to emphasize the duration of an event or the time since a particular occurrence.
The phrase “a month of Sundays” traces its origins to the early 19th century. It first appeared in print in Frederick Marryat’s Newton Forster (1832). The expression was likely never intended to be taken literally, as it would equate to a period of approximately thirty weeks. By the time Ogden Nash referenced it in his poem “My Dear, How Did You Ever Think up This Delicious Salad?” (1935), the phrase had become a cliché. The British variant, “a week of Sundays,” is rarely used in American English.
The semantic core of “a month of Sundays” lies in its hyperbolic nature, emphasizing the perception of time as unusually prolonged. It conveys a sense of duration that is both indefinite and exaggerated, often used to describe something that feels interminable or a long-awaited event.
In contemporary culture, “a month of Sundays” is often used in casual conversation to express the notion of a long wait or an extended absence. The phrase has appeared in various literary and cultural contexts, underscoring its enduring appeal as a vivid descriptor of time.
In professional contexts, “a month of Sundays” might be used to describe the anticipated duration of a lengthy project. Socially, it can denote the long passage of time since a reunion with friends or family. In literature, it often serves as a metaphor for waiting or longing.
The phrase “a month of Sundays” remains relevant in modern discourse, particularly in informal settings. Its vivid imagery and hyperbolic nature ensure its continued usage. Durability rating: ★★★★☆
“The salad course nowadays seems to be a month of sundaes.” - Ogden Nash, “My Dear, How Did You Ever Think up This Delicious Salad?” (1935)