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Rainstorm

UK //ˈreɪnˌstɔːm// US //ˈreɪnˌstɔrm// Pronunciation

Definition

A severe weather condition characterized by heavy rain and strong winds.

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In simple words: A heavy rainfall with strong winds and thunder.

Examples

• The rainstorm caused flooding throughout the city.
• We decided to wait indoors until the rainstorm passed.
• The picnic was ruined by an unexpected rainstorm.
• Meteorologists predicted a rainstorm later in the evening.
• After the rainstorm, a beautiful rainbow appeared in the sky.
• During the rainstorm, we heard loud thunder claps.
• She forgot her umbrella during the rainstorm and got soaked.

Usage notes

Commonly used in everyday conversation and news reports. Not typically used in formal writing.

Grammar pattern

rainstorm + noun/verb

Memory hint

Think of 'rain' pouring down during a 'storm' - the clouds are angry!

Collocations

• severe rainstorm
• heavy rainstorm
• unexpected rainstorm
• violent rainstorm

Synonyms

• storm
• downpour
• deluge
• tempest
• thunderstorm

Common mistakes

• Confusing 'rainstorm' with 'thunderstorm' - a rainstorm can occur without thunder.
• Using 'rainstorm' in place of 'shower' - a rainstorm is much heavier.