0299 Raining cats and dogs

Explanation

An idiom meaning it is raining very heavily or torrentially.

Origin

The origin of this peculiar phrase is uncertain, and likely apocryphal stories abound.
One theory suggests that in 17th/18th century England, heavy rains could flood poorly drained streets, carrying along debris and unfortunately, the bodies of stray animals like cats and dogs, making it seem like they rained from the sky. (This is grim and likely untrue).
Another theory links it to Norse mythology, where Odin, the storm god, was associated with dogs/wolves, and witches, associated with cats, were believed to ride the wind during storms.
A simpler linguistic theory suggests it might derive from the Greek cata doxa, meaning contrary to experience or belief (implying unbelievable rain), or possibly related to the obsolete French word catadoupe (waterfall or cascade).
Another possibility is it's simply a nonsensical, catchy phrase emphasizing the intensity, like a chaotic downpour of animals.
Whatever the origin, it became established as a common idiom for heavy rain by the 18th century (Jonathan Swift used it in 1738).

Alternatives

Slang/Informal:

Pissing down (Vulgar, common in UK/Aus)
Absolutely chucking it down (UK/Aus)
The heavens opened (Idiomatic, implies sudden heavy rain)

Vulgar/Emphatic:

Raining like a motherfucker
Fucking pouring

Milder/Standard:

Raining heavily
Pouring rain
A heavy downpour
Torrential rain

Situational Appropriateness

Informal.
It's a very common, slightly quaint idiom. While understood, it might sound a little dated or overly folksy in some contexts. In formal weather reports or serious discussions, heavy rain, torrential rain, or downpour are preferred.

Misunderstanding Warnings

The literal meaning is absurd, so non-native speakers usually recognise it as an idiom. The main point is understanding it means *very heavy* rain.

Examples

Don't forget your umbrella; it's raining cats and dogs out there!
We had to cancel the picnic because it started raining cats and dogs.
I got soaked walking home it was raining cats and dogs.

Dialogue

Finn: Are you heading out now?

Chloe: I was planning to, why?

Finn: You might want to wait a bit. It's absolutely raining cats and dogs!

Chloe: Oh, is it? Bummer. Okay, I'll grab a coffee and wait for it to ease up. Thanks for the heads-up.

Response Patterns

Oh really? I didn't realize it was raining that hard.
Wow, better stay inside then!
Typical! (Especially in regions known for rain, like the UK)
I know, I just came in, I'm drenched!

Common Follow-up Questions/Actions

After hearing it's raining cats and dogs:

People might look out the window to verify.
Discuss changing plans due to the weather: Should we postpone the walk?, Maybe we should drive instead.
Comment on appropriate attire: Good thing I brought my raincoat.

After acknowledging the heavy rain:

Conversation often continues about the weather or its impact.

Conversation Starter

Yes.
A common way to start a conversation by commenting on the weather. Wow, it's really raining cats and dogs out there!

Intonation

Emphasis typically on CATS and DOGS.
Often said with a tone commenting on the severity of the rain, sometimes with surprise or frustration.

Generation Differences

Widely known by all generations, but perhaps used more often by older generations (40+). Younger people might more commonly say it's pouring or bucketing down.

Regional Variations

Understood globally, but perhaps slightly more associated with British English historically. Usage frequency varies. Alternatives like bucketing down are more common in UK/Aus/NZ.

In the blink of an eye

🎲 Tons of..

[0299] Raining cats and dogs