stormy weather

stormy weather (uncountable)

1. (idiomatic, uncountable) Used to describe a period of troubles and difficulties, especially in terms of relationships.

   Antonyms: plain sailing, smooth sailing

   • 1913 October 3, The Westralian Worker, Perth, page 7, column 3:

     But so far the unbounded effrontery of Joseph has pulled him through. However, he has now struck stormy weather, and is likely to have a short and tempestuous passage as Prime Minister.

   • 1936, F.J. Thwaites, chapter XIV, in The Redemption, Sydney: H. John Edwards, published 1940, page 149:

     "Never dreamed you two had struck stormy weather, though - what's the trouble?"

   • 1939 July 29, The Argus, Melbourne, page 16, column 3:

     For if you cannot laugh together, / Look out! You're in for stormy weather.

2. Used other than figuratively or idiomatically: stormy weather.