What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
deluge
Example
The city experienced a deluge of rain that caused severe flooding. [deluge: noun]
Example
After the announcement, the company received a deluge of emails from concerned customers. [deluge: noun]
Example
She was hit by a deluge of emotions when she saw her childhood home again. [deluge: noun]
torrent
Example
The storm unleashed a torrent of rain that flooded the streets. [torrent: noun]
Example
The river turned into a raging torrent after the heavy rains. [torrent: noun]
Example
He faced a torrent of criticism after his controversial statement. [torrent: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Torrent is more commonly used than deluge in everyday language, especially in a literal sense. Deluge is less common and is often used in a figurative sense.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between deluge and torrent?
Both deluge and torrent are formal words, but deluge may be considered slightly more formal due to its Latin origin.