Meaning
When one bad thing happens, other bad things tend to happen simultaneously or soon after.
Cultural Background
Often used in business to describe a 'bad quarter' where everything goes wrong. Frequently used in casual conversation to commiserate over the weather or general life struggles. Used similarly to the UK, often with a sense of dry humor. Used in both professional and personal settings to acknowledge shared hardship.
Keep it simple
Don't try to change the words. It is a fixed proverb.
Use it for empathy
It is a great way to show you understand a friend's bad day.
Meaning
When one bad thing happens, other bad things tend to happen simultaneously or soon after.
Keep it simple
Don't try to change the words. It is a fixed proverb.
Use it for empathy
It is a great way to show you understand a friend's bad day.
Test Yourself
Complete the proverb.
When it rains, it ______.
The proverb is 'When it rains, it pours.'
Which situation fits the proverb?
You won the lottery and found a dollar on the street.
The proverb is for negative events, not positive ones.
🎉 Score: /2
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
2 exercisesWhen it rains, it ______.
The proverb is 'When it rains, it pours.'
You won the lottery and found a dollar on the street.
The proverb is for negative events, not positive ones.
🎉 Score: /2
Frequently Asked Questions
2 questionsNo, it is almost exclusively for negative events.
It is neutral and can be used in most settings.
Related Phrases
Adding insult to injury
similarMaking a bad situation worse.
Bad luck comes in threes
similarMisfortunes happen in groups of three.
