When it rains, it pours: Learn what the means through example!

What does “When it rains, it pours” mean?

"When it rains, it pours" means that when something bad happens, it often happens in a series or all at once.

What context can I use the in?

Example

First, I lost my job, then my car broke down. When it rains, it pours.

Example

I was already stressed about my upcoming exam, and then I got sick. When it rains, it pours.

Example

I had a fight with my best friend, and then my computer crashed. When it rains, it pours

Is “When it rains, it pours” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“When it rains, it pours” 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 “When it rains, it pours” effectively in context?

You can use "When it rains, it pours" to express the idea that when something bad happens, it often happens in a series or all at once. It emphasizes the feeling of being overwhelmed by multiple unfortunate events. For example, if a friend tells you about their car breaking down and losing their job, you might respond, 'Wow, when it rains, it pours.'

• 1. Personal Life

  First, I lost my job, then my car broke down. When it rains, it pours.

• 2. Academic Stress

  I was already stressed about my upcoming exam, and then I got sick. When it rains, it pours.

• 3. Relationship Issues

  I had a fight with my best friend, and then my computer crashed. When it rains, it pours.

Similar phrases to “When it rains, it pours”:

Misfortunes never come alone

Bad events often happen together or in quick succession

Example

First, she lost her wallet, then her phone. Misfortunes never come alone.

Murphy's Law

Anything that can go wrong will go wrong

Example

I was already running late, and then I got a flat tire. It's Murphy's Law.

When one door closes, another opens

When something bad happens, there is often an opportunity for something good to follow

Example

She didn't get the job she wanted, but when one door closes, another opens.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “When it rains, it pours” come from?

The origin of the phrase "When it rains, it pours" is unknown.

Is “When it rains, it pours” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "When it rains, it pours" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to describe situations where multiple unfortunate events occur consecutively or simultaneously.

What tone does “When it rains, it pours” have?

"When it rains, it pours" conveys a tone of resignation and acceptance. It suggests that sometimes life can be overwhelming and unpredictable, and it's important to acknowledge and cope with difficult circumstances.

Can “When it rains, it pours” be used in informal and formal settings?

Yes, "When it rains, it pours" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that captures the idea of experiencing a series of unfortunate events. 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, 'First, I lost my job, then my car broke down. When it rains, it pours.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'When it rains, it pours' to imply that things are going wrong.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

• bad luck comes in threes
• troubles never come singly
• a string of bad luck
• everything happens at once

Antonyms

• smooth sailing
• good fortune
• streak of luck
• everything is going well