a passing shower

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a passing shower" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a brief period of rain that is expected to stop soon. Example: "The weather forecast predicts a passing shower this afternoon, so don't forget your umbrella."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

It was but a passing shower.

The Guardian - Sport

"Probably it's just a passing shower," someone says.

The New York Times

It was cold but bright with a passing shower.

The Guardian

Despite the increase in clouds, there is only a very slight chance of a passing shower.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Don't let a passing shower keep you from entering the mix.

The New York Times - Travel

A passing shower or thunderstorm also can't be ruled out but probably wouldn't last long.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

No World Series game had been delayed in progress since 1982, but this was more than a passing South Florida shower.

The New York Times - Sports

If she did manage to sneak away for an hour, a passing rain shower could throw him into a panic that she and her car were wrapped around a tree.

The New Yorker

Also, we drove this car through a passing rain shower and the rain never touched us; it got pushed behind the car, into our wake.

Forbes

Murray began in terrific form, overpowering Nishikori in a 35-minute first set, but he lost control of the match when a passing rain shower led to the new roof being brought over Arthur Ashe Stadium.

BBC

"Afternoon Mist" is essentially a quiet mix of green and taupe, but "Passing Shower" is marked by more florid brushwork, especially in the curtain of rain at the right of the canvas.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a passing shower" to describe a brief, light rainfall that doesn't last long. It's suitable for weather forecasts or casual conversation.

Common error

Avoid using "a passing shower" to describe heavy or prolonged rain. Opt for terms like "downpour" or "storm" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a passing shower" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object in a sentence. It describes a specific type of weather event, referring to a brief and light rainfall, as demonstrated in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a passing shower" is a noun phrase used to describe a brief and light rainfall. Ludwig confirms that the phrase is grammatically sound and suitable for describing temporary weather conditions. While primarily found in news and media contexts, its neutral register allows for use in various settings. Consider alternatives like "brief rain" or "quick shower" for nuanced descriptions. Remember that this phrase should not be used to describe heavier or prolonged rainfall events. This phrase is not very common but easily understandable.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

quick shower

Highlights the rapid onset and cessation of the rain.

brief rain

Focuses on the short duration of the rainfall.

fleeting rain

Indicates the temporary nature of the rainfall.

light drizzle

Emphasizes the lightness and fineness of the rain.

momentary rainfall

Emphasizes how short the rainfall is.

short burst of rain

Describes the sudden and brief nature of the rainfall.

transient shower

Uses a more formal term to describe the brief nature of the shower.

scattered showers

Suggests that the showers are isolated and not widespread.

light rain spell

Focuses on the short period of light rain.

intermittent drizzle

Indicates that the drizzle stops and starts periodically.

FAQs

How to use "a passing shower" in a sentence?

You can use "a passing shower" to describe a brief period of rain. For example: "The forecast calls for "a passing shower" this afternoon, so take an umbrella."

What can I say instead of "a passing shower"?

You can use alternatives like "brief rain", "quick shower", or "light drizzle" depending on the intensity and duration of the rainfall.

Is it correct to say "passing showers" instead of "a passing shower"?

Yes, "passing showers" can be used to indicate multiple brief periods of rain. However, ""a passing shower"" refers to a single, isolated event.

What's the difference between "a passing shower" and "a thunderstorm"?

"A passing shower" is a brief, light rainfall. A "thunderstorm" involves heavy rain, thunder, and lightning, indicating a much more severe weather event.