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Gale

UK //ɡeɪl// US //ɡeɪl// Pronunciation

Definition

A very strong wind, often associated with storms.

Listen to definition

In simple words: A strong wind.

Examples

• The gale tore through the village, causing widespread damage.
• A strong gale is expected to hit the coast tonight.
• During the gale, the waves reached heights of over twenty feet.
• She enjoyed walking on the beach despite the gale warning.
• The old lighthouse stood firm against the raging gale.

Usage notes

Used in weather contexts. More common in literary or formal contexts rather than casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

A 'gale' sounds like 'wail' - imagine a wind howling like a child wailing.

Collocations

• gale warning
• gale force
• heavy gale
• strong gale
• fierce gale

Synonyms

• storm
• windstorm
• tempest
• hurricane
• blast

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'gale-force' which indicates wind strength.
• Used incorrectly to describe weak winds.
• Mixed up with 'gale' as a name without context.