What are the definitions of “rain down on”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Fall in large numbers.
Bombs RAINED DOWN ON the city all night.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “rain down on”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb rain down on is when something falls in large numbers or amounts, usually from the sky. This can refer to actual rain, but it can also be used metaphorically for other things falling or happening in large quantities.
What are the different verb forms of “rain down on”?
| Root Verb | rain down on |
| Third Person Singular Present | rains down on |
| Present Participle | raining down on |
| Simple Past | rained down on |
| Past Participle | rained down on |
Example
During the storm, hail rained down on the cars, causing damage.
Example
Every year, confetti rains down on the crowd during the New Year's Eve celebration.
Example
Leaves are raining down on the ground as the wind blows through the trees.
Example
During the fireworks display, sparks rained down on the spectators.
Example
The meteor shower rained down on Earth, creating a spectacular sight.
What kind of phrasal verb is “rain down on”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Intransitive verb
“rain down on” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.
Example
The rain rained down on the city.
Example
Compliments rained down on her after her performance.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“rain down on” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
The rain rained down on the city.
Example
Compliments rained down on her after her performance.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “rain down on”?
Good things to know
Does “rain down on” have an informal or formal tone?
Rain down on is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal writing or speeches, depending on the specific context.
