下小雨。
Light rain.
Literally: Fall small rain.
Use `下小雨` for light sprinkles when an umbrella is optional but the mood is cozy.
In 15 Seconds
- Used to describe light rain or a gentle drizzle.
- Combines 'fall' with 'small rain' for a literal meaning.
- Perfect for casual small talk and daily weather updates.
Meaning
This phrase describes a light, gentle rain or a drizzle. It is the kind of weather where you might not even need an umbrella, but the ground is definitely getting wet.
Key Examples
3 of 6Checking the weather before a walk
外面在下小雨，我们要去公园吗？
It's drizzling outside, do we still want to go to the park?
Looking out the window at work
今天一直在下小雨，天灰蒙蒙的。
It has been drizzling all day; the sky is so gray.
A polite weather observation in a meeting
虽然在下小雨，但空气很清新。
Although it's raining lightly, the air is very fresh.
Cultural Background
In China, spring rain is highly celebrated as it nourishes the fields after winter. The phrase evokes a sense of 'Jiangnan' (South of the Yangtze River) imagery, where misty rain over water is a classic aesthetic. It is often associated with a quiet, contemplative mood in literature and film.
The 'Zai' Factor
Always add `在` (zài) before `下小雨` if you want to say it is raining *right now*. It makes you sound much more like a native speaker.
Don't say 'Small Rain'
While you think 'small rain' in your head, remember that in English we say 'light rain.' Don't translate it back literally when speaking English!
In 15 Seconds
- Used to describe light rain or a gentle drizzle.
- Combines 'fall' with 'small rain' for a literal meaning.
- Perfect for casual small talk and daily weather updates.
What It Means
下小雨 is the most common way to say it is drizzling. The word 下 means to fall or go down. 小雨 literally translates to small rain. Together, they describe that misty, light precipitation. It is not a storm or a downpour. It is just a gentle sprinkle from the sky.
How To Use It
You use this phrase as a complete thought or part of a sentence. You can say 外面在下小雨 to mean it is drizzling outside. It often pairs with the word 在 to show the action is happening right now. You do not need complex grammar for this one. Just drop it into a conversation about the weather. It is as simple as saying 'it is raining' in English.
When To Use It
Use this when you are checking the weather with friends. It is perfect for deciding if you should walk to a cafe. You might use it in a text to explain why you are late. It is great for small talk with a neighbor in the elevator. If you see a few drops on your window, this is your go-to phrase. It feels very natural and cozy in daily conversation.
When NOT To Use It
Do not use this if there is thunder or lightning. If you are getting soaked in seconds, 下小雨 is way too weak. Avoid using it in a very formal scientific weather report. Meteorologists might use more technical terms like 阵雨 for showers. Also, do not use it to describe your emotions directly. It is strictly for the actual sky falling down in tiny bits. If it is a monsoon, using this will make you sound very confused!
Cultural Background
In Chinese culture, light rain often has a poetic or romantic feeling. Many famous ancient poems describe the 'oily' or 'silk-like' quality of spring rain. It is seen as a sign of life and renewal for crops. In modern cities like Shanghai or Taipei, 下小雨 is just a daily reality. People often don't even bother with umbrellas during a 'small rain.' They just pull up a hood and keep walking. It represents a calm, slightly melancholic, but peaceful atmosphere.
Common Variations
You will often hear 下毛毛雨 which means a very fine drizzle. If the rain is getting stronger, you switch to 下中雨 (medium rain). If it is a total bucket-dumper, you say 下大雨 (big rain). You can also add 了 at the end, like 下小雨了, to say 'it started drizzling.' Adding 一直在 means it has been drizzling non-stop. These variations help you describe exactly how wet you are going to get.
Usage Notes
This is a standard Level A2 phrase. It is safe for all social contexts. The most important thing is to remember the verb `下` (xià) must precede the noun `小雨`.
The 'Zai' Factor
Always add `在` (zài) before `下小雨` if you want to say it is raining *right now*. It makes you sound much more like a native speaker.
Don't say 'Small Rain'
While you think 'small rain' in your head, remember that in English we say 'light rain.' Don't translate it back literally when speaking English!
The Umbrella Rule
In many Chinese cities, if it is just `下小雨`, you will see people walking without umbrellas. It's considered a 'refreshing' rain that doesn't require gear.
Examples
6外面在下小雨，我们要去公园吗？
It's drizzling outside, do we still want to go to the park?
Uses '在' to show the rain is happening right now.
今天一直在下小雨，天灰蒙蒙的。
It has been drizzling all day; the sky is so gray.
Describes a continuous state of light rain.
虽然在下小雨，但空气很清新。
Although it's raining lightly, the air is very fresh.
A safe, polite opening for a professional setting.
下小雨了，我骑车慢一点。
It started drizzling, I'll bike a bit slower.
The '了' indicates a change in the weather state.
天呐！下小雨了！我的发型完了！
Oh my god! It's drizzling! My hair is ruined!
Humorous use showing how even light rain affects some people.
窗外下着小雨，他想起了家乡。
Small rain was falling outside the window, and he thought of home.
Uses '着' to create a descriptive, atmospheric background.
Test Yourself
Choose the correct character to complete the phrase for 'light rain'.
外面在下___雨。
`小` (small) is used with `雨` (rain) to specifically mean light rain or drizzle.
How do you say it 'started' to drizzle?
下小雨___。
Adding `了` at the end of the phrase indicates a change in situation, meaning the rain has begun.
🎉 Score: /2
Visual Learning Aids
Formality of '下小雨'
Texting friends or family.
下小雨了，带伞！
Standard daily conversation.
外面在下小雨。
Weather reports or news.
今日局部地区有小雨。
Where to use '下小雨'
Small Talk
Talking to a neighbor in the hallway.
Planning
Deciding whether to hike or stay in.
Texting
Warning a friend about the weather.
Journaling
Describing the mood of the day.
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsIt literally means 'fall small rain.' The character 下 is the verb for falling, and 小雨 is the noun for light rain.
No, you should use 下大雨 (xià dà yǔ) for heavy rain. 下小雨 is strictly for light sprinkles or drizzle.
It is neutral. You can use it with your boss, your grandma, or your best friend without any issues.
You should say 外面在下小雨 (Wàimiàn zài xià xiǎoyǔ). The 在 indicates the action is currently in progress.
小雨 is light rain, while 毛毛雨 (máo mao yǔ) is even lighter, like a fine mist or 'cat hair' rain.
Not usually when using it as a verb phrase like 下小雨. You just say the phrase as is.
Yes, if you are explaining a delay or making small talk. For example: 因为下小雨，我晚到五分钟 (Because of light rain, I'll be 5 minutes late).
It is most commonly associated with spring (春雨), but you can use it any time of year when the rain is light.
Learners often forget the verb 下. You cannot just say 今天小雨; you must say 今天下小雨.
You can ask 外面在下小雨吗？ (Is it drizzling outside?).
Related Phrases
下大雨 (Heavy rain)
毛毛雨 (Drizzle/Mist)
下雪 (To snow)
阴天 (Cloudy day)
雨伞 (Umbrella)
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