What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
monsoon
Example
The monsoon season in India typically lasts from June to September. [monsoon: noun]
Example
It's been raining heavily for days due to the monsoon. [monsoon: adjective]
downpour
Example
We got caught in a downpour on our way home. [downpour: noun]
Example
The skies opened up, and there was a downpour of rain. [downpour: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Downpour is more commonly used than monsoon in everyday language. Downpour is a more versatile word that can be used to describe heavy rain in any context, while monsoon is more specific to certain regions and weather patterns.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between monsoon and downpour?
Neither monsoon nor downpour is particularly formal or informal, and both can be used in a variety of contexts without sounding out of place.