looks like rain

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "looks like rain" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that you believe rain is coming soon, based on various signs that you have seen (dark clouds, a change in temperature, etc.). For example, "I glanced out the window and it looks like rain is on its way."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

"It looks like rain.

The New York Times

THE forecast is in for Super Bowl weekend, and once again, it looks like rain.

The New York Times

"It looks like rain, mon," Delvon called from our cart as Simpson prepared to tee off.

The New Yorker

Looks like rain… Updated at 3.52pm BST 3.44pm BST Hello, it's raining ….actually lots and lots of rain.

The Guardian - Sport

Mr. Forstall asks, "Do I need a raincoat today?" The phone replies, "It sure looks like rain today," and shows the weather screen again.

The New York Times

Call ahead if it looks like rain; otherwise, pack up your picnic blanket and bug spray and head uptown for some drama alfresco.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

Wear a poncho or bring an umbrella if it is or looks like raining.

WikiHow

Plan on bringing some wet weather clothing, sufficient for at least getting around if it looks like raining on the day.

WikiHow

Plus it looked like rain.

The New Yorker

One drawls: "Well, it doesn't look like rain.

Independent

When I rose around 4, the sky looked like rain.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "looks like rain" when there are visual cues suggesting impending rainfall, such as dark clouds or a change in wind direction.

Common error

Avoid using "looks like rain" based on a single indicator. Confirm your observation with multiple cues before making the prediction to avoid being inaccurate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "looks like rain" functions as a weather prediction. It's used to express an expectation that rain is likely to occur soon, based on observed atmospheric conditions. Ludwig confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and readily usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Wiki

15%

Lifestyle

10%

Less common in

Sport

3%

Science

2%

Arts

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "looks like rain" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to predict upcoming rainfall based on observed weather conditions. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is appropriate for various contexts, predominantly in news and media, and reflects a neutral register suitable for both casual and more formal communication. To enhance clarity and avoid misinterpretation, ensure your prediction is based on multiple cues rather than a single observation. Consider using alternatives like "it seems it's going to rain" or "rain seems imminent" for variety, depending on the desired level of formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it seems it's going to rain

Changes the verb from "looks" to "seems" and rephrases the prediction with "going to rain".

it appears to be raining soon

Employs "appears" instead of "looks", adding a touch of formality.

rain seems imminent

Uses a more formal tone with "imminent" replacing the more casual "looks like".

the sky suggests rain

Focuses on the "sky" as the indicator and uses "suggests" to imply the prediction.

it's shaping up to rain

Uses the idiom "shaping up" to suggest an impending event.

the weather indicates rain

Replaces the subjective "looks" with the more objective "indicates".

signs point to rain

Uses a more figurative expression to indicate an upcoming rain event.

rain is likely

Simplifies the phrase to a direct statement of probability.

expect rain shortly

Conveys expectation of near-future rain.

impending rainfall

Uses a noun phrase to convey the sense of upcoming rain.

FAQs

How to use "looks like rain" in a sentence?

You can use "looks like rain" to express the anticipation of rain based on current weather conditions. For example, "I think I'll take an umbrella; it "looks like rain"."

What can I say instead of "looks like rain"?

You can use alternatives like "it seems it's going to rain", "rain seems imminent", or "it appears to be raining soon" depending on the context.

Is it always accurate to say "looks like rain"?

Saying "looks like rain" is an observation, not a guarantee. Weather conditions can change, so it's not always 100% accurate. Consider checking a weather forecast for a more reliable prediction.

When is it appropriate to use "looks like rain"?

It's appropriate when you observe visual cues suggesting rain, such as darkening skies, gathering clouds, or increased humidity. It's a casual way to express an expectation of upcoming rainfall.