rain commenced

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "rain commenced" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate the beginning of rainfall, often in a more formal or literary context. Example: "As the sun set, rain commenced, drenching the parched earth with much-needed moisture."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

We huddled around a hearth in a dirt-floored shed as a bone-chilling rain commenced.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Vaccination occurred from August to October 2005, and administration of all three doses to all participants was completed before the "small rains" commenced.

Plosone

So far, rains are late to arrive in the Sahel, except in central Niger and eastern Mali, while monsoon rains commenced some one to three weeks earlier than normal in India and Pakistan.

Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations

In the winter breeding areas along both sides of the Red Sea, seasonal rains commenced in early October, which is slightly earlier than normal.

Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations

Small-scale breeding will cause locust numbers to increase slightly in the summer breeding areas of the northern Sahel between Mauritania and western Eritrea once the seasonal rains commence.

Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations

The gap from the lead pack to the first group of pursuers remained between two and two-and-a-half minutes for the rest of stage with many teams electing not to bridge the gap, mainly due to the rain that had commenced within the closing 25 km.

Wikipedia

The sky was reportedly completely dark as torrential rain and high winds commenced.

Wikipedia

This morning the farmers commenced to cart again, but the rain has since mid-day again set in with every appearance of continuing.

The Economist

The painting commenced on a Tuesday because on the Monday there was ceaseless rain.

The New Yorker

Countdown commenced.

The New Yorker

Dealmaking commenced.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "rain commenced" to add a touch of formality or create a specific tone in descriptive writing. It's suitable for settings where a slightly elevated or literary style is desired.

Common error

Avoid using "rain commenced" in everyday conversation or informal writing. It can sound unnatural or pretentious in contexts where simpler phrases like "rain began" or "it started raining" would be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "rain commenced" functions as a verbal phrase indicating the start of precipitation. According to Ludwig, this phrase is considered grammatically correct and suitable for written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

32%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "rain commenced" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe the beginning of rainfall, often in a more formal or literary context. As indicated by Ludwig, it's suitable for descriptive writing and narrative settings. While not as common as simpler alternatives like "rain began", it adds a touch of formality. It is more frequent in News & Media and Science contexts. When choosing this phrase, consider the desired tone and audience, as it may sound unnatural in casual conversation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

rain began

This is a simpler and more common alternative.

rain started

Similar to "rain began", this option is less formal.

rainfall initiated

This alternative uses a more formal and technical term for rain.

precipitation started

This is a more general and scientific term for any form of water falling from the sky.

showers commenced

Specifically refers to light or intermittent rain.

it started raining

A more conversational way to express the beginning of rain.

the heavens opened

A more dramatic and figurative way to describe heavy rain starting.

the downpour began

Focuses on the intensity of the rain as it starts.

the rain set in

Suggests a more prolonged or persistent period of rain is starting.

the skies opened up

Another figurative way to describe heavy rain starting suddenly.

FAQs

How can I use "rain commenced" in a sentence?

You can use "rain commenced" to describe the beginning of rainfall, often in a formal or descriptive context. For example, "As the sun set, "rain commenced", drenching the parched earth with much-needed moisture."

What are some alternatives to "rain commenced"?

Alternatives include "rain began", "rain started", or "precipitation started", depending on the desired level of formality.

Is "rain commenced" too formal for everyday use?

Yes, "rain commenced" is generally considered more formal. In casual conversation, it's better to use phrases like "it started raining" or "rain began".

What is the difference between "rain commenced" and "rain began"?

"Rain commenced" is more formal and less common than "rain began". While both describe the start of rainfall, "rain commenced" carries a more elevated or literary tone.