What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
cloudburst
Example
We got caught in a cloudburst while hiking in the mountains. [cloudburst: noun]
Example
The cloudburst flooded the streets, causing traffic jams. [cloudburst: verb]
deluge
Example
The city experienced a deluge that caused severe flooding. [deluge: noun]
Example
During the storm, rain deluged the entire region. [deluged: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Deluge is more commonly used than cloudburst in everyday language. Deluge is a versatile term that can be used to describe various types of heavy rainfall, while cloudburst is less common and typically used in specific contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between cloudburst and deluge?
Both cloudburst and deluge are formal words that are commonly used in weather reports, scientific discussions, and formal writing.