Why Does Rain “Go Up” in Japanese?
2026-09-15
Why Does Rain “Go Up” in Japan...

Why Does Rain “Go Up” in Japanese?

In Japanese, we say 雨が上がる (ame ga agaru) when the rain stops. Literally, this sounds like “the rain goes up.” But rain falls downward, so why use agaru, meaning “to rise”?
 
The answer is that agaru has several meanings beyond upward movement. It can also describe something ending or reaching completion. For example, 仕事が上がる (shigoto ga agaru) means the work is finished, while 料理が出来上がる (ryōri ga dekiagaru) means a dish is ready.
 
In 雨が上がる, the rain is not moving upward. The period of rainfall has come to an end. Japanese dictionaries recognize this weather-related meaning of agaru: rain stops or the weather improves. Dictionary reference
 
You can also say 雨が止む (ame ga yamu), meaning simply “the rain stops.” However, ame ga agaru often brings to mind the scene afterward: wet streets, fresh air, and perhaps sunlight breaking through the clouds.
 
To me, that makes it a hopeful expression. The rain has ended, and we can move forward again.
 
 
Disclaimer: I use AI as a tool to help create images and proofread my writing. However, the ideas, opinions, experiences, and messages in my posts are my own. AI does not generate my posts for me. It simply helps me present my own words and ideas more clearly.






Kenichi Uchikura
Founder & CEO

Pacific Software Publishing, Inc. (PSPINC)
Uchikura & Co., LLC.

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ABOUT THIS BLOG

I was born and raised in Japan and have spent most of my adult life in the United States. Through this blog, I share Japanese culture, language, expressions, and wisdom. My goal is not to say one culture is better, but to explore different perspectives and what we can learn from them.

Your comments are always welcome.

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