B1noun2K

Earthquake

UK /["/ˈɜːθkweɪk/"]/US /["/ˈɜːrθkweɪk/"]/

Definition

a sudden, violent shaking of the earth’s surface

In simple words: A sudden shaking of the ground caused by movements in the Earth's crust.

Examples

  • The earthquake caused significant damage to the city.
  • Scientists are studying the causes of earthquakes to better predict them.
  • During the earthquake, people were advised to stay indoors for safety.
  • An earthquake can lead to tsunamis if it occurs underwater.
  • The earthquake registered a magnitude of 7.1 on the Richter scale.
  • After the earthquake, rescue teams worked around the clock to find survivors.
  • Many people felt anxious after experiencing their first earthquake.
  • Seismologists use special equipment to measure the strength of an earthquake.

Usage notes

Commonly used in news reports and scientific discussions. Not used in casual conversation unless specifically discussing natural disasters.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'earth' shaking in 'quake'—like the ground is on a trampoline.

Collocations

  • big
  • great
  • huge
  • cause
  • trigger
  • experience
  • happen
  • hit (something)
  • occur
  • activity
  • zone
  • survivor
  • in an/​the earthquake
  • the epicentre/​epicenter of an earthquake
  • the magnitude of an earthquake

Synonyms

  • quake
  • tremor
  • seismic event
  • shock
  • aftershock

Antonyms

  • calm
  • stability

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'earth quake' as two separate words.
  • Mispronunciation, often the second syllable is stressed incorrectly.
  • Confusing it with 'landslide' or 'tsunami', though they are different events.