a slight rain

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a slight rain" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a light or gentle rainfall, often in weather reports or casual conversation about the weather. Example: "As we stepped outside, we noticed a slight rain beginning to fall, so we grabbed our umbrellas."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

By Mark Strand The New Yorker, October 14 , 1967P. 62 It is dark, a slight rain dampens the streets View Article By Jelani Cobb By David Remnick By Jia Tolentino By Naomi Fry.

The New Yorker

The New Yorker, October 14 , 1967P. 62 It is dark, a slight rain dampens the streets View Article Trump's Lawyers Argue That He Cannot Be Impeached Because He Was Never Actually Elected What Happens When a Bad-Tempered, Distractible Doofus Runs an Empire?

The New Yorker

As a slight rain started to fall, each woman opened a wide umbrella, a rainbow of polka dots popping up amid the ocean of green.

BBC

There was a slight rain delay, and I was like, 'Guys, this needs to happen.

Huffington Post

Canberra is protected from the west by the Brindabellas which create a slight rain shadow in Canberra's valleys.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Categories reflect sunny dry days (RHrefmin < 50%%), overcast days where a very slight rain event might occur (RHrefmin = 50 60 %) and wet days with at least one heavy rain event (RHrefmin = 60 80 %).

AoB PLANTS

A slight misty rain invoked visions of Blade Runner as the neon signs glittered in the distance.

Forbes

He scooted himself to the middle of the bench, his bleeding hand wrapped in the scarf, his jacket buttoned up against the slight rain that was beginning to fall, and there he sat, waiting for his wife.

The New Yorker

They're capable of flying in slight rain and wind, which is perfect for Florida.

TechCrunch

The highest precipitation occurs in the months of July and August followed by dry spell which is broken by slight rain showers from January to March.

Applied Water Science

Earlier a little rain.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing weather conditions, use "a slight rain" to convey a sense of gentle and minimal precipitation, suitable for settings where the rain doesn't significantly disrupt activities.

Common error

Avoid using "a slight rain" when describing heavy or disruptive rainfall; opt for terms like "moderate rain" or "heavy downpour" to accurately reflect the intensity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a slight rain" functions as a noun phrase, where "slight" modifies the noun "rain". It serves to describe the intensity or degree of rainfall. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a slight rain" is a grammatically sound and relatively common way to describe a light rainfall. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. Predominantly found in news, media, and scientific contexts, it conveys minimal intensity. When using this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects the gentle nature of the rainfall, avoiding its application to heavier downpours. For more variety, alternatives like "a light shower" or "a drizzle" can be employed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a light shower

This alternative focuses on the brief and gentle nature of the rain.

a gentle rain

This alternative emphasizes the mildness and lack of intensity of the rainfall.

a drizzle

This alternative describes a very fine and light rain.

light rainfall

This alternative uses a noun form to describe the phenomenon.

a sprinkle

This alternative suggests an even lighter and more sporadic rain.

a passing shower

This alternative emphasizes the short duration of the rain.

a touch of rain

This alternative implies a very minimal amount of rain.

a trace of rain

This alternative suggests an almost imperceptible amount of rainfall.

a soft rain

This alternative highlights the gentle and non-forceful quality of the rain.

a mild rain

This alternative underlines the lack of severity in the rain.

FAQs

What does "a slight rain" mean?

The phrase "a slight rain" describes a light and gentle rainfall, often not heavy enough to cause significant disruption.

What can I say instead of "a slight rain"?

You can use alternatives like "a light shower", "a gentle rain", or "a drizzle" depending on the context.

How is "a slight rain" different from "a heavy rain"?

"A slight rain" indicates minimal rainfall, while "a heavy rain" implies a significant and possibly disruptive amount of precipitation.

Is it appropriate to use "a slight rain" in formal writing?

Yes, "a slight rain" is appropriate for formal writing when describing weather conditions in a neutral and factual manner.