What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
storm
Example
The storm knocked down power lines and caused widespread damage. [storm: noun]
Example
She stormed out of the room in anger. [stormed: verb]
tempest
Example
The tempest raged all night, causing flooding and landslides. [tempest: noun]
Example
The country was in the midst of a political tempest, with protests and riots erupting across the nation. [tempest: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Storm is more commonly used than tempest in everyday language, and is more versatile in its usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between storm and tempest?
While tempest has a more formal and literary connotation, storm can be used in both formal and informal contexts.