Rain cats and dogs Meaning in English
expression
Definition
To rain very heavily; to have a huge amount of rain falling in a short time. This is an informal, idiomatic expression in English.
Usage & Nuances
This phrase is quite informal and old-fashioned in American and British English. Used to describe sudden or extreme rain, not just any rain. It's rarely used in writing except to sound playful. Native speakers often use 'pouring,' 'pouring rain,' or 'it's coming down hard' instead. Avoid literal translation into other languages.
Example Sentences
It's raining cats and dogs outside right now.
basic
When we left the house, it started to rain cats and dogs.
basic
You should bring an umbrella in case it rains cats and dogs later.
basic
Yesterday it was raining cats and dogs, so the football match was canceled.
natural
I got completely soaked because it began to rain cats and dogs just as I was walking to my car.
natural
You won’t believe how hard it’s raining cats and dogs—the streets are already flooding!
natural