Phrasal verb
rain down
Definition
phrasal verb. to fall in large amounts from above, like rain. You can use this when many things, like ash or even insults, fall on someone or something at once.
phrasal verb. To fall or descend in large quantities from a height. Often used figuratively to describe the rapid and heavy delivery of objects, criticisms, or blows.
Examples
“Confetti rained down on the winners.”
“After the team won the championship, thousands of pieces of gold paper rained down on the players.”
“As the regime collapsed, accusations of corruption rained down upon the former ministers from every corner of the press.”
Examples
simple
“Confetti rained down on the winners.”
contextual
“After the team won the championship, thousands of pieces of gold paper rained down on the players.”
complex
“As the regime collapsed, accusations of corruption rained down upon the former ministers from every corner of the press.”
Usage
Often used with 'on' or 'upon' to indicate the target or location of the falling items.
Teaching tip
Contrast with 'pour down', which usually refers specifically to heavy rain, whereas 'rain down' can apply to any numerous objects.
Pitfall
A single stone rained down from the wall.
A single stone fell from the wall.
'Rain down' implies a large quantity of items falling simultaneously, not a single object.
Phrasal verb
Particles
down
Separability
inseparable
Pattern
rain + down (+ on + object)
Synonyms
Antonyms
Grammar
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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