it started raining

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it started raining" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it in a sentence to describe a change in the weather. For example, "The sun was shining one minute, and then it started raining."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

"It started raining".

The New York Times

"It started raining," he said.

The New Yorker

Soon after that it started raining.

The Guardian - Travel

Then one day it started raining.

The New York Times

"It started raining and just wouldn't stop," Russell said.

The New York Times - Sports

Every break went Seo's way until it started raining hard.

The New York Times - Sports

I lost my watch, and it started raining".

The New York Times

Danica Patrick lost control of her car as it started raining and finished 15th.

The New York Times - Sports

It started raining, but, slowly, a crowd of disgruntled Knicks fans began to form.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

And then it starts raining.

The New Yorker

Especially if it starts raining.

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it started raining" to clearly indicate the beginning of rainfall, often as a turning point in a narrative or description. For example, "We were enjoying the picnic until it started raining."

Common error

While "it started raining" is perfectly acceptable, avoid using it excessively in a single piece of writing. Vary your descriptions of the rain to maintain reader interest. Try using phrases like "the rain began to fall" or "a downpour commenced".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it started raining" functions as an intransitive verb phrase, indicating the commencement of a weather event. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. It describes a change of state.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

95%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it started raining" is a grammatically sound and commonly used phrase to indicate the commencement of rainfall. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. It is versatile, fitting into neutral registers and various contexts, particularly in news and media. While perfectly acceptable, varying your descriptive language can enhance writing. Remember, clear communication is key.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the rain began to fall

Focuses on the action of the rain starting.

rain commenced

More formal way to say rain started.

the heavens opened

Figurative language for heavy rain starting suddenly.

it began to pour

Emphasizes the intensity of the rain.

the rain set in

Suggests rain has started and is likely to continue.

a downpour began

Highlights the sudden start of heavy rain.

the drizzle turned to rain

Describes a gradual increase in rainfall.

precipitation initiated

Technical term for rain starting.

showers commenced

Refers to the beginning of light rain.

the skies opened up

Figurative way to describe rain starting suddenly and heavily.

FAQs

How can I use "it started raining" in a sentence?

You can use "it started raining" to describe the onset of rain. For example, "We were having a great time at the beach, but "it started raining", so we had to leave."

What are some alternatives to "it started raining"?

Some alternatives include "the rain began to fall", "it began to pour", or "the heavens opened", depending on the context and intensity of the rain.

Is "it started to rain" grammatically correct?

Yes, "it started to rain" is also grammatically correct and conveys a similar meaning to "it started raining". The choice between the two often comes down to personal preference or stylistic considerations.

What's the difference between "it started raining" and "it was raining"?

"It started raining" indicates the beginning of the rainfall, while "it was raining" describes an ongoing state of rain. For instance, "It started raining during the concert" versus "It was raining all day yesterday".