What is the Meaning of the Idiom
TAKE A RAINCHECK?

Definition:

said when politely refusing an offer; the idea is that you may accept the offer at a later date

Note: A raincheck is a coupon (or ticket) given to you when something you want to purchase (or attend) is not available.

For example, if a store offers an item for sale, and they do not have the item available when you go to purchase it, sometimes they will give you a raincheck so you can return and purchase the item later at the sale price.

Or, if you purchase a ticket to a sports event and it is cancelled because of the weather, they will give you a raincheck, so that you can attend at a later date.

Example:

• Thanks for the invitation. We can’t come on Friday because we have plans, but we would love to take a raincheck.

See CULTURAL TIPS for saying “no” to an invitation