What does “Raining cats and dogs” mean?
"Raining cats and dogs" means that it is raining very heavily.
What context can I use the in?
Example
I forgot my umbrella and it started raining cats and dogs.
Example
We had to cancel our picnic because it was raining cats and dogs.
Example
I had to wade through the flooded streets because it was raining cats and dogs
Is “Raining cats and dogs” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Raining cats and dogs” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “Raining cats and dogs” effectively in context?
You can use "Raining cats and dogs" to describe a situation where it is raining very heavily. It emphasizes the intensity of the rain. For example, if someone asks you why you're carrying an umbrella on a sunny day, you can say, 'I forgot my umbrella once when it was "raining cats and dogs", and I got completely soaked.'
- 1Weather
We had to cancel our picnic because it was raining cats and dogs.
- 2Inconvenience
I had to wade through the flooded streets because it was raining cats and dogs.
- 3Surprise
I forgot my umbrella and it started raining cats and dogs.
Similar phrases to “Raining cats and dogs”:
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Raining cats and dogs” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Raining cats and dogs" is unknown. There are several theories about its origins, but none have been proven. One theory suggests that the phrase comes from Norse mythology, where cats and dogs were believed to have influence over storms. Another theory suggests that the phrase originated from the streets of medieval Europe, where heavy rain would wash away the carcasses of dead animals, making it seem like it was raining cats and dogs.
Is “Raining cats and dogs” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Raining cats and dogs" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to describe heavy rainfall in a vivid and humorous way.
What tone does “Raining cats and dogs” have?
"Raining cats and dogs" conveys a tone of exaggeration and humor. It's often used in a lighthearted manner to make a point about the intensity of the rain.
Can “Raining cats and dogs” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Raining cats and dogs" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a well-known expression that conveys the idea of heavy rain in a playful way. You can use it in casual conversations with friends and family, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations or writing.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'I had to cancel the outdoor event because it was "raining cats and dogs".' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'It's "raining cats and dogs"!' to imply that it's raining heavily.
