American Accent
Slang & idioms
"raining cats and dogs", drawn literally
Literally

raining cats and dogs

(phrase)Casual

What it actually means

Raining very heavily. Often said with a smile because the image is so absurd — also slightly old-fashioned.

In a sentence

  • “Grab an umbrella — it's raining cats and dogs out there.”
  • “We couldn't even see the road; it was raining cats and dogs.”

Also known as

pouringa downpour

Where it’s used

everydayOld-fashioned

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To force yourself through something unpleasant because you have to — to do the hard thing now and get it over with.

the ball is in your court

It's your turn to make a decision or take action — the responsibility has been passed to you.

hit the nail on the head

To say or do exactly the right thing — to pinpoint the truth or solution precisely.

raining cats and dogs — American slang definition + audio