What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
deluge
Example
The office was deluged with phone calls after the announcement. [deluged: past tense]
Example
The news article deluged readers with information about the scandal. [deluged: verb]
flood
Example
The river flooded the town after the heavy rain. [flooded: past tense]
Example
The store was flooded with customers during the holiday sale. [flooded: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Flood is more commonly used than deluge in everyday language, especially when referring to a natural disaster or water overflow. Deluge is less common and may be used in more specific contexts, such as describing an overwhelming amount of information or requests.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between deluge and flood?
Both deluge and flood can be used in formal and informal contexts, but deluge may be perceived as more casual or figurative due to its broader range of uses.