1.
early summer rain; seasonal rain
The long, continuous rain that falls in early summer (around May-June in the lunar calendar). Associated with the rainy season.
2.
intermittent; sporadic; in a trickle
Used figuratively to describe something happening intermittently or in scattered intervals, like falling rain.
五月雨 originally refers to rain in the fifth month of the lunar calendar (roughly June).
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A poetic term often found in classical literature and haiku.
USAGE (modern business use):
五月雨式 describes:
- Sending メール/messages in multiple parts
- Making payments in installments
- Delivering items in batches
Note: Using 五月雨式 in business often carries an apologetic nuance, implying inconvenience caused by the sporadic nature.
Related Words
Related:
梅雨 (rainy season)