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Avalanche

UK //ˈæv.ə.læntʃ// US //ˈæv.ə.læntʃ// Pronunciation

Definition

A sudden and fast flow of snow down a mountainside.

Listen to definition

In simple words: A large amount of snow and ice that suddenly falls down a mountain.

Examples

• The avalanche swept down the mountain, burying everything in its path.
• Skiers were warned to stay clear of areas prone to avalanche risk.
• The sudden avalanche caught many climbers by surprise.
• After the avalanche, rescue teams searched for survivors among the snow.
• They monitored the weather closely to avoid an avalanche during their trip.

Usage notes

Use in contexts about snow or mountains. Not suitable for informal conversations unless metaphorically.

Grammar pattern

noun

Memory hint

Think of 'aval' as the sound of snow rushing down a slope.

Collocations

• avalanche warning
• snow avalanche
• risk of avalanche
• avalanche safety
• avalanche rescue

Synonyms

• snow slide
• landslide
• slide
• lawine
• snowslide

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'avalanche' as a non-snow-related event.
• Incorrectly spelling as 'avalanch' or 'avalnche'.