Meaning
To rain very heavily, as if ropes are falling from the sky.
Cultural Background
French people often complain about the weather as a social bonding activity. While 'pleuvoir des cordes' is understood, they might also use 'il mouille à siaux' (raining by buckets). Belgians use the same idiom, reflecting the shared French language influence. Commonly used in French-speaking cantons.
Impersonal 'Il'
Always use 'Il' with 'pleuvoir'. Never use 'Je' or 'Tu'.
Meaning
To rain very heavily, as if ropes are falling from the sky.
Impersonal 'Il'
Always use 'Il' with 'pleuvoir'. Never use 'Je' or 'Tu'.
Test Yourself
Complete the sentence with the correct phrase.
Il _____ des cordes aujourd'hui.
The verb 'pleuvoir' is impersonal and uses the third-person singular 'pleut'.
Which sentence is correct?
Choose the correct idiom for heavy rain.
'Il pleut des cordes' is the standard French idiom.
Complete the dialogue.
A: On sort ? B: Non, _____
The context implies a reason to stay inside, so 'il pleut des cordes' fits.
🎉 Score: /3
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
3 exercisesIl _____ des cordes aujourd'hui.
The verb 'pleuvoir' is impersonal and uses the third-person singular 'pleut'.
Choose the correct idiom for heavy rain.
'Il pleut des cordes' is the standard French idiom.
A: On sort ? B: Non, _____
The context implies a reason to stay inside, so 'il pleut des cordes' fits.
🎉 Score: /3
Frequently Asked Questions
2 questionsNo, 'pleuvoir' is always impersonal, so use 'Il'.
No, it is casual and used in daily life.
Related Phrases
Il tombe des cordes
synonymRopes are falling
Il pleut des hallebardes
similarIt is raining halberds
