spell of heavy rain

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "spell of heavy rain" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a period during which heavy rain occurs, often implying that it is unusual or noteworthy. Example: "After a long spell of heavy rain, the river finally overflowed its banks."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

The line, which connects Hastings to London Bridge and Charing Cross, was hit by seven landslips during the spell of heavy rain over the winter.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Drainage density controls the speed of runoff following a spell of heavy rains.

Applied Water Science

Heavy clouds will gather throughout today, bringing spells of heavy rain and a dull, overcast day.

Independent

Those planning on attending Bonfire Night displays in the east of the UK on Thursday evening stand a chance of getting soaked, as spells of heavy rain are expected.

Independent

The sporting venues were shoddy: after short spells of heavy rain, a temporary ceiling collapsed on a table-tennis court, and the roof of the weight-lifting arena caved in.

The New Yorker

Hope Powell's side and their opponents Canada had been scheduled to train this evening but Fifa and Locog decided to protect the surface after the recent schedule and spells of heavy rain.

The Guardian - Sport

Southern California was hit by scattered showers — with some areas experiencing thunder, lightning and spells of heavier rain — as a storm moved through the region late Sunday and early Monday.

Los Angeles Times

The weather report: Chance of heavy rain and thunder.

The New York Times

A combination of heavy rain, bitter storms, and coastal surges.

The Guardian

The floods began Monday after several days of heavy rain.

The New York Times

After days of heavy rain, a perfect sunny Saturday emerges.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To emphasize the prolonged nature of the "spell of heavy rain", consider adding details like the duration or frequency of rainfall. This helps paint a clearer picture for the reader.

Common error

Don't simply state that there was a "spell of heavy rain" without indicating its effect or duration. Vague descriptions weaken the impact. Specify the consequences or duration for a clearer picture.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "spell of heavy rain" functions as a noun phrase that describes a period characterized by significant rainfall. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

33%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Academia

6%

Reference

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "spell of heavy rain" effectively describes a period marked by significant rainfall and is deemed grammatically correct by Ludwig AI. Commonly used in news, science, and general contexts, it serves to inform about weather conditions, often with an emphasis on unusual or noteworthy occurrences. While its register is generally neutral, it's crucial to provide specific details about the consequences or duration of the rain for maximum impact. Related phrases like "period of heavy rainfall" offer alternative ways to express the same concept, and awareness of common errors, such as vague descriptions, can enhance writing clarity. The phrase's widespread presence across reputable sources underscores its consistent usage and acceptance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

period of heavy rainfall

Replaces "spell" with "period" and "rain" with "rainfall", focusing on the duration and amount of rain.

bout of torrential rain

Substitutes "spell" with "bout" and "heavy" with "torrential", emphasizing the intensity of the rain.

episode of intense rain

Replaces "spell" with "episode" and "heavy" with "intense", highlighting a specific occurrence of heavy rain.

time of substantial rainfall

Uses "time" instead of "spell" and "substantial rainfall" to emphasize a considerable amount of rain over a period.

phase of significant precipitation

Employs more formal vocabulary, replacing "spell" with "phase", "heavy" with "significant", and "rain" with "precipitation".

patch of severe rain

Replaces "spell" with "patch" and "heavy" with "severe", indicating a localized area affected by heavy rain.

stretch of considerable rain

Uses "stretch" for "spell" and "considerable" for "heavy", suggesting an extended duration of significant rain.

wave of downpour

Replaces "spell of heavy rain" with a more figurative expression emphasizing a sudden and intense downpour.

instance of pouring rain

Replaces "spell" with "instance" and "heavy rain" with "pouring rain", focusing on a particular occasion of heavy rainfall.

period of extreme precipitation

Substitutes with more dramatic vocabulary to underscore severity.

FAQs

How can I use "spell of heavy rain" in a sentence?

You can use "spell of heavy rain" to describe a period characterized by significant rainfall, such as "The town experienced a prolonged "spell of heavy rain", leading to widespread flooding".

What's a more formal way to say "spell of heavy rain"?

For a more formal tone, consider using alternatives like "period of significant precipitation" or "episode of substantial rainfall". These options offer a more elevated and professional sound.

What can I say instead of "spell of heavy rain" to emphasize the intensity?

To emphasize intensity, you could use phrases like "bout of torrential rain" or "episode of intense rain". These alternatives underscore the severity of the rainfall.

Is there a difference between "spell of heavy rain" and "period of heavy rain"?

While both phrases are similar, "spell of heavy rain" often implies a distinct, noteworthy occurrence, whereas "period of heavy rain" simply indicates a duration marked by heavy rainfall. Therefore, "period of heavy rain" might be considered more neutral than ""spell of heavy rain"".