Rain vs. Sprinkling: What's the Difference?
Edited by Harlon Moss || By Janet White || Updated on October 10, 2023
"Rain" refers to water droplets falling from the sky, while "Sprinkling" denotes a light, scattered distribution of a substance, often referring to a light rain.
Key Differences
Rain" is a natural meteorological phenomenon where water droplets form in the atmosphere and fall to the Earth's surface. This happens due to the condensation of atmospheric water vapor, which subsequently drops when it becomes heavy. "Sprinkling", on the other hand, can allude to a light rain or the act of scattering small amounts of a substance over a surface. It is not as intense or sustained as rain and is more dispersed in nature.
Moreover, when we discuss "Rain" in everyday conversation, it often implies a notable or significant amount of water coming down, sometimes even leading to puddles or causing floods. In contrast, "Sprinkling" implies a lighter touch, whether that's a gentle scatter of rain, or sprinkling salt on a dish. The intensity and volume of water involved in a sprinkling are usually minimal.
In literature and poetry, "Rain" often symbolizes renewal, sorrow, or the cyclic nature of life. It's a powerful image that can evoke a myriad of emotions, from the coziness of a rainy day indoors to the melancholy of a downpour. "Sprinkling" might be used in a more delicate context, symbolizing a hint, a trace, or a gentle touch of something—like a sprinkling of stars in the night sky or a sprinkling of joy in one's day.
Finally, in terms of frequency, "Rain" is a common occurrence in many parts of the world, with some regions experiencing it almost daily, and others seasonally. "Sprinkling", when referring to weather, denotes a type of rain, but the term can also be applied in various other contexts, from cooking to crafts, where it means a light, scattered distribution of a substance.
Comparison Chart
Definition
Water droplets falling from the sky.
A light, scattered distribution of a substance.
ADVERTISEMENT
Intensity
Often implies a notable amount of water.
Implies a lighter, gentler distribution.
Symbolism in Literature
Can symbolize renewal, sorrow, or cycles.
Often symbolizes a hint or trace of something.
Usage in Language
Commonly used for weather phenomena.
Can be used in various contexts beyond weather.
Frequency
A common occurrence in many parts of the world.
Depends on context, not as frequent as "rain".
Rain and Sprinkling Definitions
Rain
Water droplets falling from clouds.
The rain drenched the streets.
ADVERTISEMENT
Sprinkling
A trace amount of something.
Just a sprinkling of doubt remained in his mind.
Rain
To fall or shower down.
It rained compliments at the award ceremony.
Sprinkling
The act of scattering a small amount.
A sprinkling of sugar made the dessert perfect.
Rain
An unexpected or uncontrolled event.
When it rains, it pours.
Sprinkling
A small quantity scattered.
There was a sprinkling of stars in the sky.
Rain
Water condensed from atmospheric vapor and falling in drops.
Sprinkling
A small amount or quantity; a modicum.
Rain
A fall of such water; a rainstorm.
Sprinkling
A small quantity scattered or sparsely distributed.
Rain
The descent of such water.
Sprinkling
Present participle of sprinkle
Rain
Rainy weather.
Sprinkling
The action of the verb to sprinkle.
Rain
Rains A rainy season.
Sprinkling
A small thinly distributed amount, e.g. of some liquid, powder or other fine substance that is sprinkled on to something.
Rain
A heavy or abundant fall
A rain of fluffy cottonwood seeds.
A rain of insults.
Sprinkling
A light shower of rain.
Rain
To fall in drops of water from the clouds.
Sprinkling
A scattering.
Rain
To fall like rain
Praise rained down on the composer.
Sprinkling
The act of one who, or that which, sprinkles.
Baptism may well enough be performed by sprinkling or effusion of water.
Rain
To release rain.
Sprinkling
A small quantity falling in distinct drops or particles; as, a sprinkling of rain or snow.
Rain
To send or pour down.
Sprinkling
Hence, a moderate number or quantity distributed like separate drops, or as if scattered like drops.
Rain
To give abundantly; shower
Rain gifts.
Rain curses upon their heads.
Sprinkling
A small number dispersed haphazardly;
The first scatterings of green
Rain
Condensed water falling from a cloud.
We've been having a lot of rain lately.
The rains came late that year.
Sprinkling
A light shower that falls in some locations and not others nearby
Rain
(figuratively) Any matter moving or falling, usually through air, and especially if liquid or otherwise figuratively identifiable with raindrops.
Sprinkling
The act of sprinkling water in baptism (rare)
Rain
(figuratively) An instance of particles or larger pieces of matter moving or falling through air.
A rain of mortar fire fell on our trenches.
Sprinkling
The act of sprinkling or splashing water;
Baptized with a sprinkling of holy water
A sparge of warm water over the malt
Rain
(impersonal) To have rain fall from the sky.
Judging by the black cloud, it will rain later today.
Sprinkling
A light rain.
A soft sprinkling began as we walked in the park.
Rain
(intransitive) To fall as or like rain.
Tears rained from her eyes.
Leaves rained from the tree.
Bombs rained from the sky.
Sprinkling
To distribute in drops or particles.
She was sprinkling water on her plants.
Rain
(transitive) To issue (something) in large quantities.
The boxer rained punches on his opponent's head.
Rain
Reign.
Rain
Water falling in drops from the clouds; the descent of water from the clouds in drops.
Rain is water by the heat of the sun divided into very small parts ascending in the air, till, encountering the cold, it be condensed into clouds, and descends in drops.
Fair days have oft contracted wind and rain.
Rain
To fall in drops from the clouds, as water; - used mostly with it for a nominative; as, it rains.
The rain it raineth every day.
Rain
To fall or drop like water from the clouds; as, tears rained from their eyes.
Rain
To pour or shower down from above, like rain from the clouds.
Then said the Lord unto Moses, Behold, I will rain bread from heaven for you.
Rain
To bestow in a profuse or abundant manner; as, to rain favors upon a person.
Rain
Water falling in drops from vapor condensed in the atmosphere
Rain
Drops of fresh water that fall as precipitation from clouds
Rain
Anything happening rapidly or in quick successive;
A rain of bullets
A pelting of insults
Rain
Precipitate as rain;
If it rains much more, we can expect some flooding
Rain
A significant amount of something descending.
A rain of arrows flew from the castle walls.
Rain
A sorrowful or gloomy atmosphere.
A pall of rain hung over the funeral.
FAQs
Can "sprinkling" refer to a cooking method?
Yes, such as sprinkling salt on food.
Can "rain" refer to anything other than water?
Metaphorically, yes. Like "a rain of arrows" meaning many arrows falling.
Which is more intense, rain or sprinkling?
"Rain" typically implies more intensity, while "sprinkling" is lighter.
Is "sprinkling" always related to rain?
No, "sprinkling" can also mean scattering small amounts of a substance.
Is "sprinkling" only related to liquid substances?
No, it can refer to any substance distributed in small amounts.
Is "rain" always a natural phenomenon?
Typically, but metaphorically it can be used in other contexts.
How is "rain" typically measured?
"Rain" is often measured in inches or millimeters.
Is "sprinkling" the same as "spraying"?
Not exactly. Sprinkling is lighter, while spraying can be more forceful.
Does "rain" play a role in literature or movies?
Yes, rain can symbolize various moods or themes.
Does "rain" always imply a sad or gloomy mood?
No, it can, but rain can also be seen as refreshing or cozy.
Can "sprinkling" be used in art?
Yes, like sprinkling glitter on a painting.
Can "sprinkling" denote a tiny amount?
Yes, it can indicate a small, scattered quantity of something.
Can "rain" have different forms?
Yes, such as drizzle, showers, or downpours.
What does "sprinkling" mean in religious contexts?
It can refer to the act of scattering holy water.
Can "sprinkling" mean a touch or hint of something?
Yes, like a sprinkling of humor in a serious story.
Is "rain" essential for agriculture?
Yes, rain provides necessary water for crops.
About Author
Written by
Janet WhiteJanet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.
Edited by
Harlon MossHarlon is a seasoned quality moderator and accomplished content writer for Difference Wiki. An alumnus of the prestigious University of California, he earned his degree in Computer Science. Leveraging his academic background, Harlon brings a meticulous and informed perspective to his work, ensuring content accuracy and excellence.
