5K

Black ice

UK //blæk aɪs// US //blæk aɪs// Pronunciation

Definition

A thin layer of ice on a road that appears transparent and is very slippery.

Listen to definition

In simple words: A thin layer of ice that is hard to see on the road.

Examples

• The roads are dangerous today because of black ice.
• Many accidents occur when drivers are unaware of black ice patches.
• Be careful, there might be black ice in the shaded areas of the road.
• He slipped on the black ice and fell unexpectedly.
• The weather report warned about the presence of black ice overnight.

Usage notes

Used in everyday conversation about driving conditions, especially in regions with winter weather. Avoid using in very formal contexts.

Grammar pattern

standalone term

Memory hint

Think of 'black ice' as hidden danger, like a black cat crossing your path at night.

Collocations

• drive on black ice
• danger of black ice
• alert for black ice

Synonyms

• invisible ice
• black frost
• slick road

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'blackout', thinking it refers to power loss.
• Misunderstanding it only applies to black roads; ice can be clear but still dangerous.