rains

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "rains" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to the act of rain falling, typically in discussions about weather or nature. Example: "The forecast predicts that it rains heavily this weekend, so we should prepare accordingly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Sheela Patel says, "We talk about water conservation in the summer, not before the rains, we talk about mosquitoes when 400 people died of dengue.

The Guardian

It rains – of course – but that doesn't stop the family enjoying themselves.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Unoka loved the good fare and the good fellowship, and he loved this season of the year, when the rains had stopped and the sun rose every morning with dazzling beauty.

The Guardian - Books

The documents, which include recently declassified cables from the Australian high commission, reinforce the view that Gukurahundi – a Shona word for the spring rains that sweep away dry season chaff - was closely associated with Mugabe's Zanu-PF party's efforts to eliminate opposition groups after independence in 1980.

The Guardian

As he stood on platform two, with rains engulfing the night, this young, slight boy who had yet to even complete his fourth grade made a decision that would change the course of his life for ever.

The Guardian

Just inside, children labour hard to prepare storm ditches for the coming rains, digging out the stinking mud, watched by a sullen adult and a young girl with no expression on her face beyond that shaped by her skinny cheekbones.

The Guardian

Driving monsoon rains – and the end of the trafficking season – are expected within days.

The Guardian

However, Adrian Gill, director of estate agents Your Move and Reeds Rains, warns the move will increase demand for homes without boosting supply.

The Guardian - Money

( Nob Hill offers rich pickings: the outrageous Tonga Room (it rains indoors!) in classic grand dame hotel, The Fairmont; and Big 4 in the more boutiquey Scarlet Huntington across the road, all starched tablecloths, green leather booths and grand piano.

The Guardian - Travel

Chain drains are a far more attractive alternative to downpipes, and become instant water features when it rains and the water tumbles down the chain links.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

As we walked up the gorge, Don Sotero pointed to where the recent rains had swept sand and gravel down the gorge, burying much of the best art.

The Guardian - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing seasonal weather patterns or agricultural impacts, use "rains" to refer to the rainy season or periods of rainfall, especially in regions with distinct wet and dry seasons.

Common error

Instead of saying "The rains caused a flood", consider "The rain caused a flood" to accurately reflect a singular event.

Linguistic Context

The word "rains" functions primarily as a noun, referring to multiple instances of rainfall or a period characterized by rain. Ludwig provides examples of it referring to seasonal weather or the impacts of precipitation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the term "rains" is grammatically correct and frequently used, as affirmed by Ludwig, primarily as a noun to describe multiple instances of rainfall or a rainy season. It is commonly found in news and media, formal business contexts, and scientific discussions. While generally neutral in register, it often carries implications related to weather patterns, agriculture, and environmental impact. When referring to a single event of rain, it's more appropriate to use the singular form, "rain". Remember, focusing on accurate descriptors ensures clarity and precision in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

periods of rainfall

Replaces the single word with a descriptive phrase, emphasizing the duration and nature of the precipitation.

wet seasons

Focuses on the time of year characterized by rain, rather than the rain itself.

heavy downpours

Highlights the intensity of the rainfall, rather than just its occurrence.

torrential rains

Emphasizes the force and abundance of the rain.

monsoon season

Specifically refers to a seasonal period of heavy rainfall, common in certain regions.

rainy spells

Suggests shorter, intermittent periods of rain.

precipitation events

A more formal and scientific term for instances of rainfall.

periods of showers

Indicates lighter and less continuous rainfall.

times of heavy rainfall

Rephrases using a more descriptive approach to indicate heavy rainfall

days of continuous rain

Focuses on the duration of rainy weather over multiple days.

FAQs

How can I use "rains" in a sentence?

You can use "rains" to refer to periods of rainfall, such as "The "monsoon rains" are crucial for agriculture in this region" or "The "spring rains" have brought much-needed relief to drought-stricken areas".

What's a more formal alternative to "rains"?

For a more formal tone, consider using "precipitation". For example, instead of "The rains have been abundant this year", you might say "The precipitation has been abundant this year".

Is it correct to use "rains" to describe a single rainfall event?

While "rains" typically refers to multiple or recurring instances of rainfall, for a single event, it is generally more appropriate to use "rain". For example, "The rain caused flooding in the city".

What is the difference between "rains" and "rainfall"?

"Rains" often refers to a period or season of rain, while "rainfall" refers to the amount of rain that falls. You might say "The rains were heavy this year, resulting in record rainfall levels".