rain date

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "rain date" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to refer to a scheduled alternative date for an event that may be postponed due to rain. For example, "The outdoor concert will be held on Saturday, with a rain date set for Sunday." Alternative expressions include "backup date" and "alternate date."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Arts

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

(rain date: July 11).

The New York Times

(Rain date, Sunday).

The New York Times - Arts

(Rain date is Wednesday).

The New York Times - Arts

The rain date is Sunday.

The New York Times - Arts

(Rain date is June 23).

The New York Times - Arts

(Rain date, Oct. 4).

The New York Times

Rain date: Oct. 1.

The New York Times - Arts

Today (rain date Monday).

The New York Times

Rain date: Sunday (Dunning).

The New York Times

(Sunday is the rain date).

The New York Times - Arts

Rain date, Oct. 5. Free.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When planning outdoor events, always clearly communicate the "rain date" to attendees to manage expectations and ensure participation.

Common error

Never assume attendees remember the "rain date". Remind them as the event approaches, especially if there's a chance of rain.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "rain date" functions as a noun phrase, often used as an attributive noun modifying another noun (e.g., "the rain date is Sunday"). As shown in Ludwig, it specifies an alternative date in case of rain.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Arts

30%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Wiki

7%

Science

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "rain date" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to indicate an alternative date for an event if the original date is affected by rain. Ludwig AI confirms its broad acceptance and usability. The phrase is most frequently found in News & Media and Arts contexts, signaling its relevance for public events and planning. When using "rain date", ensure clear communication with attendees and avoid assuming they remember the alternative date. Considering "alternative date" or "backup date" can provide similar meanings, depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

weather backup plan

Specifies a plan that is activated due to weather-related issues.

inclement weather alternative

Directly addresses the concept of having an alternative in case of bad weather.

alternative date

Focuses on the substitution of the date, not necessarily because of rain.

backup date

Emphasizes the availability of a secondary plan, not specifically related to weather.

secondary date

Highlights the order of importance of this date

rescheduled date

Highlights the act of moving the date to a later time.

postponement date

Refers to the date to which an event is delayed.

contingency date

Suggests a date set aside for unforeseen circumstances.

reserve date

Implies a date kept in readiness as a replacement.

alternate schedule

Refers to an entirely different plan, which could include a different date or time.

FAQs

What does "rain date" mean?

A "rain date" is an alternative date set for an event if the original date is affected by rain or bad weather.

What is another way to say "rain date"?

You can use alternatives like "alternative date", "backup date", or "weather backup plan".

How do I use "rain date" in a sentence?

Example: "The picnic is scheduled for Saturday, with a "rain date" set for Sunday."

Is it necessary to have a "rain date" for outdoor events?

While not mandatory, having a "rain date" is highly recommended for outdoor events to avoid cancellation and ensure the event still takes place.