What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
whirlwind
Example
The new manager brought a whirlwind of changes to the company. [whirlwind: noun]
Example
She had a whirlwind romance with her partner, getting engaged after only a month of dating. [whirlwind: adjective]
storm
Example
The storm knocked down power lines and caused widespread damage. [storm: noun]
Example
He stormed out of the room after an argument with his boss. [stormed: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Storm is more commonly used than whirlwind in everyday language, especially when referring to weather-related events. Whirlwind is less common and is often used in figurative or literary contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between whirlwind and storm?
Both whirlwind and storm can be used in formal and informal contexts, but whirlwind may be perceived as more literary or poetic due to its less frequent usage in everyday language.