"It looks like rain" vs "It's going to rain"

Question

"It looks like rain" vs "It's going to rain"

Both phrases are correct, but they convey slightly different meanings. 'It's going to rain' implies a prediction or forecast of rain in the near future, while 'It looks like rain' suggests an observation based on current weather conditions. The choice between the two depends on whether you are stating a forecast or describing the current weather.

Last Updated: March 20, 2024

Use this phrase when you want to express an observation that the weather conditions indicate the possibility of rain.

Examples:

The sky is overcast and the air feels heavy; it looks like rain.
The wind is picking up, and it looks like rain is on the way.

Alternatives:

It seems like rain is coming
Rain may be approaching
The weather looks like rain
There's a chance of rain
Rain could be on the horizon

Use this phrase when you want to convey that rain is expected to happen soon based on weather forecasts or predictions.

Examples:

The clouds are getting darker, so it's going to rain soon.
According to the weather report, it's going to rain this afternoon.

Alternatives:

It will rain soon
Rain is expected
There's a high chance of rain
Rain is on the way
We're expecting rain

Answer 1

It looks like rain

This phrase is correct and commonly used to describe the appearance of the weather, suggesting that rain may be imminent based on current conditions.

Answer 2

It's going to rain

This phrase is correct and commonly used to indicate a prediction or forecast of rain in the near future.

"It looks like rain" vs "It's going to rain"

It looks like rain

It's going to rain

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