What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
monsoon
Example
The monsoon season in India typically lasts from June to September. [monsoon: noun]
Example
We got caught in a monsoon while hiking in the rainforest. [monsoon: adjective]
cloudburst
Example
The cloudburst caused severe flooding in the city. [cloudburst: noun]
Example
We had to take shelter under a tree during the cloudburst. [cloudburst: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Monsoon is a more common word than cloudburst as it is used to describe a weather pattern that affects a large part of the world. Cloudburst is a less common word and is used to describe a specific type of rainfall.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between monsoon and cloudburst?
Both monsoon and cloudburst are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.