What are the phraseological synonyms of "like cats and dogs"? - briefly
The idiomatic expression "like cats and dogs" refers to heavy rainfall. Some phraseological synonyms for this include "raining cats and dogs," which is a direct variation, or "it's pouring," indicating intense rain.
What are the phraseological synonyms of "like cats and dogs"? - in detail
The phrase "like cats and dogs" is an idiomatic expression used to describe heavy rainfall, where the metaphorical comparison to animals suggests that precipitation is falling in large quantities or with great intensity. This vivid imagery has led to several other colloquial expressions that convey similar meanings.
One of the most common phraseological synonyms for "like cats and dogs" is "raining cats and dogs." This expression is interchangeable with the original and shares the same metaphorical foundation, emphasizing the heavy downpour. Another popular synonym is "raining buckets," which also implies a significant amount of rain falling quickly and heavily.
Additionally, the phrase "it's pouring" can be used to describe intense rainfall, suggesting that water is being poured from the sky in large volumes. Similarly, the expression "sheets of rain" evokes an image of continuous, heavy rain, much like a solid sheet or curtain of water falling from above.
In summary, while "like cats and dogs" remains a vivid and descriptive way to express heavy rainfall, it is not alone in its ability to convey this imagery. Phraseological synonyms such as "raining cats and dogs," "raining buckets," "it's pouring," and "sheets of rain" offer alternative yet equally effective ways to describe intense precipitation.