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snowflakes

B1 noun #39 가장 일반적인 15분 분량

snowflakes

상위 39

연습하기 예시 노트와 팁 snowflakes 30초 만에

설명 snowflakes in your Level:

Snowflakes are small, white pieces of ice that fall from the sky when it is very cold. They look like little stars. When many snowflakes fall together, we call it snow. You can catch them on your hand, but they melt quickly because your hand is warm. In winter, children love to look at snowflakes. They are beautiful and soft. You can say, 'Look at the white snowflakes!' or 'The snowflakes are falling.' They are part of winter weather, like cold wind and ice. Every snowflake is different, but they all come from the clouds. They are very light, so they move slowly in the air. When you see snowflakes, you know it is time to wear a coat, a hat, and gloves. They make the world look white and pretty. Some people make snowflakes out of paper to decorate their homes for Christmas. It is a very simple and happy word for the winter season.

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Snowflakes are the individual crystals of frozen water that make up snow. They form in the clouds when the temperature is below freezing. Each snowflake has a unique shape, often with six sides or points. When you look closely at them on a dark sleeve, you can see their pretty patterns. We use the word 'snowflakes' to describe the falling ice. For example, 'The snowflakes are drifting down slowly.' They are very delicate and break easily. If you touch them, they turn into water. In many countries, snowflakes are a sign that winter has arrived. People use them in decorations and holiday cards. You might hear someone say, 'The snowflakes are so big today!' This means the crystals are sticking together as they fall. It is important to remember that 'snowflakes' is plural, so we use 'are' with it. One single piece is a 'snowflake.' They are a common part of life in cold climates and are often associated with fun activities like building a snowman or skiing.

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At the B1 level, you should understand that snowflakes are more than just 'white pieces of ice.' They are complex ice crystals that form around a core, such as a speck of dust, in the atmosphere. The word 'snowflakes' is used to describe these individual units of snow. Scientifically, it is interesting that no two snowflakes are exactly the same, which leads to the common saying that every person is 'unique like a snowflake.' You will often hear this word in weather reports or read it in stories about winter. For example, 'A few stray snowflakes began to fall, signaling the start of the storm.' It is also used in a variety of compound words and phrases. You might hear about 'snowflake patterns' in art or 'snowflake obsidian' in geology. Additionally, you should be aware that in recent years, 'snowflake' has been used as a slang term for someone who is easily offended. While this is a more advanced usage, it is common in modern English media. Understanding both the literal and metaphorical meanings will help you communicate more effectively in different social situations.

Snowflakes are a fascinating example of natural geometry. They are ice crystals that precipitate through the Earth's atmosphere, typically exhibiting six-fold radial symmetry. This symmetry occurs because of the hexagonal crystal structure of ice. At a B2 level, you can use 'snowflakes' to add descriptive detail to your writing, using verbs like 'flutter,' 'swirl,' or 'accumulate.' For instance, 'The delicate snowflakes accumulated on the branches, creating a serene winter landscape.' Beyond the literal meaning, you must navigate the socio-political connotations of the word. The term 'snowflake' has become a prominent pejorative in contemporary discourse, used to label individuals—often younger people—as fragile or oversensitive. This usage stems from the idea that snowflakes are unique but also easily melted or broken. When using the word in this context, you are engaging in a specific type of cultural critique. Being able to distinguish between a poetic description of weather and a sharp political insult is a hallmark of a B2 learner's growing cultural fluency.

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In advanced English, the word 'snowflakes' serves as a bridge between precise meteorological description and complex social metaphor. From a scientific perspective, snowflakes are aggregates of ice crystals whose morphology is determined by the specific temperature and humidity levels they encounter as they descend. Terms like 'dendritic,' 'stellar,' and 'plate-like' are used to categorize their various forms. In literature, snowflakes often symbolize the ephemeral nature of beauty and the transience of life, as seen in the works of various Romantic poets. However, the most striking C1-level usage is the word's role in modern 'culture wars.' As a pejorative, 'snowflake' implies a perceived lack of psychological resilience and an inflated sense of entitlement to 'safe spaces.' This usage is highly controversial and often serves as a shibboleth for specific political leanings. A C1 learner must be able to analyze the intent behind the word's use, recognizing when it is being used as a descriptive noun, a poetic device, or a rhetorical weapon. Mastery involves not just knowing the definition, but understanding the weight of the word in different registers and contexts.

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At the C2 level, 'snowflakes' is a word that demands a nuanced understanding of its scientific, literary, and sociolinguistic dimensions. One might discuss the 'crystallography of snowflakes,' exploring how molecular bonding leads to the infinite variety of forms documented by pioneers like Wilson Bentley. In a literary context, the snowflake can be an emblem of the 'sublime'—representing a delicate perfection that is simultaneously cold and indifferent to human existence. Furthermore, the evolution of 'snowflake' from a symbol of cherished individuality to a biting political slur is a prime example of linguistic 'pejoration.' This shift reflects deep-seated generational and ideological schisms in the Anglophone world. A C2 speaker should be capable of using the word with ironic detachment or employing it within a sophisticated critique of modern discourse. Whether analyzing the 'snowflake generation' trope in a sociological essay or describing the 'intricate dendrites' in a technical report, the speaker must be acutely aware of the word's resonance. It is no longer just a weather term; it is a linguistic marker of the complexities of modern identity and the volatility of contemporary public debate.

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연습하기 예시 노트와 팁

snowflakes 30초 만에

Snowflakes are individual ice crystals falling from the sky, forming the substance we know as snow during cold winter weather.
Scientifically, snowflakes are known for their unique hexagonal symmetry and the fact that no two are exactly alike in nature.
In modern slang, the term is often used as a pejorative to describe someone perceived as overly sensitive or fragile.
The word is a countable noun, allowing for descriptions of individual crystals or massive accumulations during winter storms.

The term snowflakes primarily refers to the individual crystals of ice that form in the atmosphere and fall to the earth as precipitation during cold weather. Each snowflake is a masterpiece of natural engineering, beginning as a tiny dust particle around which water vapor condenses and freezes. This process creates a complex, symmetrical structure, typically hexagonal, due to the molecular properties of water. In a literal sense, we use this word to describe the white, powdery substance that transforms landscapes into winter wonderlands. However, the word has evolved significantly in the 21st century, branching out from its meteorological roots into the realms of sociology and politics.

Meteorological Context: Used to describe the physical phenomenon of frozen precipitation. Example: 'The snowflakes were so large they looked like feathers.'

Beyond the weather, 'snowflake' has become a potent metaphor. Historically, it was used to describe something unique and fragile, based on the scientific observation that no two snowflakes are exactly alike. This led to the 'snowflake generation' label, initially intended to highlight the individuality of children. In contemporary slang, however, the term has taken on a pejorative (negative) meaning. It is often used to describe someone perceived as overly sensitive, easily offended, or lacking resilience. This shift in usage reflects broader cultural shifts and generational tensions, making it a word that requires careful handling depending on the audience and the intent of the speaker.

The children stood with their tongues out, trying to catch the falling snowflakes before they touched the ground.

In scientific circles, the study of snowflakes is known as crystallography. Scientists like Wilson Bentley, known as 'Snowflake Bentley,' spent their lives photographing these crystals to prove their infinite variety. When you use the word in a scientific or descriptive way, you are often highlighting beauty, transience, and the intricate patterns of nature. The word evokes a sense of quiet, cold, and stillness. It is a staple of winter poetry and holiday imagery, symbolizing purity and the arrival of the festive season. Conversely, when used in a social debate, it signals a critique of modern sensitivity. Understanding this duality is crucial for any English learner navigating both classic literature and modern social media.

Symbolic Meaning: Represents uniqueness and the ephemeral nature of life, as they melt almost instantly upon contact with warmth.

Each of the snowflakes on her coat was a perfect six-sided star.

The word also appears in various idioms and compound words. 'Snowflake obsidian' is a type of volcanic glass with white inclusions. 'Snowflake Bentley' is a famous historical figure. In the digital age, 'snowflake' is a common tag in political discourse. Whether you are discussing the climate of the Arctic or the climate of a university campus, 'snowflakes' provides a rich, albeit complex, vocabulary choice. It is a word that bridges the gap between the physical world and the abstract world of human character and social behavior. To master its use, one must observe the context: is the speaker looking at the sky or at a computer screen? The meaning changes entirely based on that single observation.

The political commentator dismissed the protesters as mere snowflakes who couldn't handle opposing views.

Social Slang: A derogatory term for a person perceived as having an inflated sense of uniqueness or being overly emotional.

Giant snowflakes drifted past the window, blurring the line between the earth and the sky.

Using the word snowflakes effectively requires an understanding of its plural nature and its descriptive potential. As a countable noun, it usually appears in the plural when describing a snowfall. You can use it to create vivid imagery by pairing it with verbs of motion. Snowflakes don't just 'fall'; they 'drift,' 'dance,' 'swirl,' 'flutter,' and 'descend.' By choosing the right verb, you convey the mood of the scene. A 'swirling' snowflake suggests a storm or wind, while a 'drifting' snowflake suggests a peaceful, quiet afternoon. This versatility makes it a favorite for creative writers and poets who want to evoke the specific atmosphere of winter.

Descriptive Adjectives: Common pairings include: delicate, intricate, crystalline, fleeting, icy, powdery, and unique.

In more formal or scientific writing, 'snowflakes' might be replaced by 'ice crystals' or 'dendrites' (a specific type of branched snowflake). However, in general communication, 'snowflakes' remains the standard. When using the word metaphorically, it often functions as a predicate nominative or a direct object in a critique. For example, 'He called them snowflakes' or 'The culture of snowflakes is debated.' In these instances, the word is used to categorize a group of people. It is important to note that this usage is almost always informal and often inflammatory. If you are writing an academic paper on social trends, you might refer to 'perceived hypersensitivity' rather than using the slang term 'snowflakes' directly, unless you are quoting a source.

As the temperature dropped, the rain turned into heavy, wet snowflakes that stuck to the windshield.

Grammatically, 'snowflakes' is the plural form of 'snowflake.' It follows standard English pluralization rules by adding an 's.' It is a count noun, meaning you can have 'one snowflake' or 'millions of snowflakes.' This distinguishes it from 'snow,' which is a non-count (mass) noun. You wouldn't say 'There are many snows,' but you would say 'There are many snowflakes.' This distinction is a common hurdle for English learners. Remember: 'snow' is the substance in general, while 'snowflakes' are the individual units that make up that substance. When you want to emphasize the beauty of the individual parts, use 'snowflakes.'

Action Verbs: Snowflakes: melt, accumulate, settle, glisten, sparkle, and vanish.

The microscope revealed that the snowflakes possessed a startling geometric complexity.

Furthermore, the word is often used in the context of 'uniqueness.' The phrase 'like a snowflake' is a common simile used to describe someone or something that is one-of-a-kind. While this was once a purely positive comparison, the modern slang usage has added a layer of irony to it. If you say, 'Everyone is a unique snowflake,' you might be being sincere, or you might be mocking the idea that everyone deserves special treatment. Context, tone of voice, and the surrounding sentences are the only ways to distinguish between these two very different meanings. In writing, you must provide enough context so the reader knows whether you are being poetic or sarcastic.

Tiny snowflakes began to dust the dark pavement like powdered sugar.

Comparative Usage: Comparing snowflakes to stars, feathers, or dust helps the reader visualize the texture and size.

By the time we reached the cabin, the snowflakes had turned into a blinding blizzard.

You will encounter the word snowflakes in a variety of real-world settings, ranging from the mundane to the highly controversial. The most common place is, naturally, in weather forecasts. Meteorologists use the term to describe the type of precipitation expected. You might hear, 'We are expecting light snowflakes throughout the evening,' which suggests a gentle dusting rather than a heavy storm. In this context, the word is purely technical and descriptive. Similarly, in schools and science museums, you will hear it during lessons on the water cycle or winter weather. Children are often taught to cut out paper snowflakes, a classic winter craft that reinforces the idea of their hexagonal symmetry.

Media & News: Weather channels, local news during winter, and political talk shows or opinion pieces.

Another frequent setting is in holiday-themed media. From classic songs like 'White Christmas' to modern films set in winter, 'snowflakes' are a visual and lyrical staple. They represent the magic and nostalgia of the season. You'll hear them mentioned in carols, see them on greeting cards, and find them as decorative motifs in shopping malls. In these environments, the word carries a warm, positive, and festive connotation. It evokes memories of childhood, sledding, and hot cocoa. For an English learner, these cultural touchstones are excellent ways to see the word used in its most traditional and widely accepted sense.

'The snowflakes are falling, and the fire is bright,' the singer crooned to the crowded room.

However, if you step into the world of social media—Twitter (X), Facebook, or YouTube comments—you will hear 'snowflakes' used in a completely different way. In political debates, particularly those involving 'culture wars,' the word is thrown around as an insult. You might hear a commentator say, 'The campus is full of snowflakes who can't handle a different opinion.' Here, the word is a weapon used to mock younger generations or those with progressive views. This usage is so common that it has been added to many modern dictionaries as a slang term. It's important to recognize this version of the word so you aren't confused when you see it in a heated online argument.

Literature & Poetry: Used to symbolize fragility, beauty, and the passage of time. Found in works by Robert Frost and other nature poets.

The professor warned that calling students snowflakes was a counterproductive way to engage in dialogue.

Finally, you might hear the word in specialized hobbies. Photographers who specialize in 'macro photography' often talk about capturing snowflakes. They discuss techniques for lighting and focus to reveal the hidden details of the crystals. In this niche, the word is associated with technical skill and artistic patience. Similarly, in the world of jewelry or fashion, 'snowflake' might describe a specific pattern of diamonds or a lace design. In all these contexts—from the weather to politics to art—the word 'snowflakes' serves as a versatile tool for communication, reflecting the multifaceted nature of the English language itself.

He spent hours in the cold with his macro lens, waiting for the perfect snowflakes to land on the velvet cloth.

Pop Culture: References in movies like 'Fight Club' (where the 'unique snowflake' idea was famously criticized) have shaped modern usage.

The winter festival featured a light show where digital snowflakes seemed to fall from the ceiling.

One of the most frequent mistakes learners make with snowflakes is confusing it with the mass noun 'snow.' While they are related, they are not interchangeable. You cannot say 'I see a snow' or 'There are many snows on the ground.' You must use 'snowflakes' for individual units and 'snow' for the collective substance. For example, 'Snowflakes are falling' is correct, and 'Snow is falling' is also correct, but they emphasize different things. The former focuses on the individual crystals, while the latter focuses on the weather event as a whole. Misusing these can make your English sound unnatural, especially in descriptive writing.

Count vs. Non-Count: Snowflakes = Countable (1, 2, 3...). Snow = Non-countable (much, some, a lot of).

Another common error involves the metaphorical use of the word. Some learners might use 'snowflake' as a compliment, thinking it only means 'unique' or 'special.' While this was true in the past, the modern pejorative meaning is now so dominant in many circles that using it as a compliment can lead to serious misunderstandings. If you tell a colleague, 'You are a real snowflake,' they might think you are calling them weak or oversensitive rather than unique. Unless you are very close to the person and the context is clear, it is safer to use words like 'unique,' 'original,' or 'one-of-a-kind' to avoid unintended offense.

Mistake: 'The ground was covered in millions of snow.' Correction: 'The ground was covered in millions of snowflakes.'

Spelling and pronunciation also present minor challenges. Some learners forget the 'w' or the 'e' at the end of 'flake,' resulting in 'snoflake' or 'snowflak.' Pronunciation-wise, the 'o' in 'snow' is a long /oʊ/ sound, and the 'a' in 'flakes' is a long /eɪ/ sound. If the 'a' is pronounced too short, it can sound like 'flacks,' which is a different word entirely. Additionally, the 's' at the end of 'snowflakes' is pronounced as a /s/ sound, not a /z/ sound, because it follows the voiceless /k/ sound. Paying attention to these small phonetic details will help you sound more like a native speaker.

Confusing with Other Weather: Don't confuse snowflakes with 'hail' (hard ice balls) or 'sleet' (frozen rain). Snowflakes are always soft and crystalline.

Incorrect: 'The snowflakes hurt when they hit my face.' (Usually hail or sleet hurts; snowflakes are soft).

Finally, there is the mistake of overusing the word in its slang sense. While it is a popular term in certain online bubbles, using it in professional or academic settings can make the speaker seem unprofessional or biased. It is a highly 'marked' word, meaning it carries a lot of social and political baggage. If you are a learner, it is often better to observe how others use it before attempting to use the slang version yourself. Stick to the literal meaning in most situations, and you will avoid the pitfalls of modern linguistic minefields. Understanding the word's history and its current controversies is the best way to ensure you use it correctly and effectively.

'I love how every snowflake is different,' she said, referring to the weather, unaware of the political insult.

Register Awareness: Literal = Neutral/Formal. Slang = Informal/Aggressive. Choose according to your environment.

The snowflakes melted the moment they touched the warm pavement.

When you want to avoid repeating snowflakes or need a more precise term, several alternatives are available depending on the context. In a scientific or highly descriptive setting, 'ice crystals' is the most accurate synonym. This term emphasizes the physical state and structure of the snowflake. Another technical term is 'dendrite,' which specifically refers to the tree-like, branching structure of many snowflakes. Using these words can elevate your writing, making it sound more professional or specialized. For example, 'The dendrites formed complex patterns as the temperature plummeted' sounds more sophisticated than simply saying 'The snowflakes were pretty.'

Scientific Alternatives: Ice crystals, dendrites, stellar plates, needles, columns (different shapes of snowflakes).

If you are describing the appearance of snowflakes without using the word itself, you might use metaphors. 'White feathers,' 'frozen stars,' or 'icy dust' are common poetic alternatives. These words help the reader visualize the texture and movement of the snow. For instance, 'A flurry of white feathers descended from the grey sky' creates a soft, gentle image. In contrast, 'Icy dust swirled in the wind' suggests a colder, harsher environment. Choosing the right metaphor allows you to control the emotional tone of your description, which is a key skill for advanced English speakers.

The air was filled with ice crystals that shimmered in the morning sun.

In the realm of slang and social commentary, the alternatives to 'snowflakes' are often equally charged. Words like 'soft,' 'oversensitive,' 'fragile,' or 'thin-skinned' convey the same idea of a lack of resilience. However, these words are more direct and less metaphorical. If you want to describe the same phenomenon without using a controversial slang term, you might use 'emotionally vulnerable' or 'easily distressed.' These terms are more clinical and less likely to trigger a defensive reaction. Understanding these nuances helps you navigate difficult conversations with more tact and precision.

Comparison: Snowflake vs. Hail: Snowflakes are soft, light, and crystalline. Hail is hard, heavy, and composed of solid ice layers. They form in very different atmospheric conditions.

Instead of delicate snowflakes, the storm brought jagged chunks of hail that dented the cars.

Finally, consider the word 'flurry.' While a snowflake is an individual unit, a 'flurry' is a brief, light shower of snowflakes. This is a very useful word for weather descriptions. You might say, 'There were a few flurries this morning, but nothing stayed on the ground.' This provides more information about the intensity and duration of the snow than just saying 'snowflakes' would. By building a vocabulary of related terms—from the scientific 'dendrite' to the poetic 'frozen star' to the descriptive 'flurry'—you become a more versatile and expressive communicator in English. Each word offers a slightly different lens through which to view the same cold, white phenomenon.

The poet described the dendrites as nature's own lace, delicate and temporary.

Metaphorical Alternatives: Fragile blossoms, winter's butterflies, silver dust, white confetti.

A sudden flurry of snowflakes obscured the mountain peak from view.

How Formal Is It?

재미있는 사실

The term 'snowflake' was used in the 1860s in Missouri to refer to people who opposed the abolition of slavery, a very different meaning from today!

발음 가이드

UK /ˈsnəʊ.fleɪks/

US /ˈsnoʊ.fleɪks/

The primary stress is on the first syllable: SNOW-flakes.

라임이 맞는 단어

shakes bakes lakes takes makes snakes quakes cakes

자주 하는 실수

Pronouncing the 'a' in 'flakes' like the 'a' in 'cat'.
Dropping the 'w' in 'snow'.
Making the final 's' sound like a 'z'.
Merging the two words into one vowel sound.
Forgetting the 'e' in 'flakes' when writing.

난이도

독해 2/5

Easy to recognize in most contexts.

쓰기 3/5

Requires correct spelling of 'flakes'.

말하기 3/5

Pronunciation of the diphthongs is key.

듣기 4/5

Must distinguish between literal and slang meanings.

다음에 무엇을 배울까

선수 학습

snow ice winter cold white

다음에 배울 것

blizzard crystal symmetry pejorative resilience

고급

crystallography meteorology rhetoric metaphor connotation

알아야 할 문법

Pluralization of Compound Nouns

Snowflake becomes snowflakes (add 's' to the end).

Count vs. Non-Count Nouns

Use 'many' with snowflakes, but 'much' with snow.

Adjective Order

The 'beautiful, white, delicate' snowflakes (Opinion, Color, Quality).

Subject-Verb Agreement

The snowflakes 'are' falling (plural subject).

Similes with 'Like'

She is as unique as a snowflake.

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수준별 예문

I see white snowflakes.

Je vois des flocons de neige blancs.

Plural noun with an adjective.

The snowflakes are cold.

Les flocons de neige sont froids.

Subject-verb agreement with 'are'.

Look at the snowflakes!

Regarde les flocons de neige !

Imperative sentence.

Snowflakes fall in winter.

Les flocons de neige tombent en hiver.

Present simple for general facts.

I like snowflakes.

J'aime les flocons de neige.

Direct object.

Ten snowflakes are on my hat.

Dix flocons de neige sont sur mon chapeau.

Number + plural noun.

The snowflakes are small.

Les flocons de neige sont petits.

Descriptive adjective.

Catch the snowflakes.

Attrape les flocons de neige.

Action verb + object.

The snowflakes are falling slowly today.

Les flocons de neige tombent lentement aujourd'hui.

Present continuous with an adverb.

Every snowflake has a different shape.

Chaque flocon de neige a une forme différente.

'Every' is followed by a singular noun 'snowflake'.

We made paper snowflakes in school.

Nous avons fait des flocons de neige en papier à l'école.

Past simple tense.

The snowflakes melt on my tongue.

Les flocons de neige fondent sur ma langue.

Present simple plural.

Big snowflakes are better for snowmen.

Les gros flocons de neige sont meilleurs pour les bonhommes de neige.

Comparative adjective.

She brushed the snowflakes off her coat.

Elle a brossé les flocons de neige de son manteau.

Phrasal verb 'brush off'.

Are those snowflakes or just rain?

Sont-ce des flocons de neige ou juste de la pluie ?

Interrogative sentence.

The snowflakes turned the grass white.

Les flocons de neige ont rendu l'herbe blanche.

Resultative construction.

The air was so still that the snowflakes seemed to hang in the air.

L'air était si calme que les flocons de neige semblaient suspendus dans l'air.

Result clause with 'so... that'.

Scientists study snowflakes to understand how ice crystals grow.

Les scientifiques étudient les flocons de neige pour comprendre comment les cristaux de glace se développent.

Infinitive of purpose.

A few stray snowflakes were the only sign of the coming storm.

Quelques flocons de neige isolés étaient le seul signe de la tempête à venir.

Adjective 'stray' used for individual units.

The patterns on the snowflakes were incredibly intricate.

Les motifs sur les flocons de neige étaient incroyablement complexes.

Adverb + adjective modifier.

He spent the afternoon photographing snowflakes in his backyard.

Il a passé l'après-midi à photographier des flocons de neige dans son jardin.

Spend + time + -ing form.

The term 'snowflakes' can sometimes be used as an insult.

Le terme 'snowflakes' peut parfois être utilisé comme une insulte.

Passive voice with modal 'can'.

Millions of snowflakes covered the mountain peak.

Des millions de flocons de neige couvraient le sommet de la montagne.

Large number + of + plural noun.

The children were excited to see the first snowflakes of the year.

Les enfants étaient excités de voir les premiers flocons de neige de l'année.

Ordinal number 'first'.

The delicate snowflakes swirled around the streetlights like tiny moths.

Les délicats flocons de neige tourbillonnaient autour des réverbères comme de minuscules papillons de nuit.

Simile using 'like'.

Critics often use the word 'snowflakes' to dismiss the concerns of younger generations.

Les critiques utilisent souvent le mot 'snowflakes' pour rejeter les préoccupations des jeunes générations.

Infinitive of purpose with 'to dismiss'.

The intricate geometry of snowflakes is a result of molecular forces.

La géométrie complexe des flocons de neige est le résultat de forces moléculaires.

Abstract noun 'geometry'.

Despite the freezing temperatures, the snowflakes were surprisingly dry.

Malgré les températures glaciales, les flocons de neige étaient étonnamment secs.

Concession with 'Despite'.

She watched the snowflakes accumulate on the windowsill while she drank her tea.

Elle regardait les flocons de neige s'accumuler sur le rebord de la fenêtre pendant qu'elle buvait son thé.

Perception verb 'watch' + object + base form.

The political debate was filled with accusations of being 'snowflakes'.

Le débat politique était rempli d'accusations d'être des 'snowflakes'.

Gerund 'being' after a preposition.

Large, wet snowflakes are indicative of temperatures near the freezing point.

De gros flocons de neige humides indiquent des températures proches du point de congélation.

Adjective 'indicative' + of.

Each of the snowflakes drifted silently toward the frozen lake.

Chacun des flocons de neige dérivait silencieusement vers le lac gelé.

'Each of the' + plural noun + singular verb.

The ethereal beauty of the snowflakes was captured in stunning detail by the macro lens.

La beauté éthérée des flocons de neige a été capturée avec des détails époustouflants par l'objectif macro.

Passive voice with 'by' agent.

The pejorative use of 'snowflakes' has become a staple of modern rhetorical strategies.

L'utilisation péjorative de 'snowflakes' est devenue un élément de base des stratégies rhétoriques modernes.

Present perfect with 'has become'.

As the humidity fluctuated, the snowflakes transitioned from plates to dendrites.

Alors que l'humidité fluctuait, les flocons de neige passaient de plaques à des dendrites.

Temporal clause with 'As'.

The poet utilized the image of falling snowflakes to evoke a sense of inevitable decay.

Le poète a utilisé l'image des flocons de neige qui tombent pour évoquer un sentiment de décomposition inévitable.

Verb 'utilize' + object + infinitive.

The sheer volume of snowflakes made visibility almost non-existent on the highway.

Le volume impressionnant de flocons de neige rendait la visibilité presque inexistante sur l'autoroute.

Noun phrase 'sheer volume of'.

Labeling opponents as 'snowflakes' often serves to shut down productive dialogue.

Étiqueter les opposants comme des 'snowflakes' sert souvent à interrompre un dialogue productif.

Gerund phrase as subject.

The crystalline structure of snowflakes is a marvel of atmospheric physics.

La structure cristalline des flocons de neige est une merveille de la physique atmosphérique.

Compound noun phrase.

The snowflakes glistened under the moonlight, transforming the woods into a silver kingdom.

Les flocons de neige scintillaient sous le clair de lune, transformant les bois en un royaume d'argent.

Participle phrase 'transforming...'.

The socio-political landscape is currently fraught with the weaponization of terms like 'snowflakes'.

Le paysage sociopolitique est actuellement empreint de l'instrumentalisation de termes comme 'snowflakes'.

Adjective 'fraught' + with.

One might argue that the ephemeral nature of snowflakes serves as a poignant memento mori.

On pourrait soutenir que la nature éphémère des flocons de neige sert de memento mori poignant.

Subjunctive/Conditional 'might argue'.

The transition of 'snowflakes' from a meteorological descriptor to a biting slur is a fascinating case of semantic shift.

La transition de 'snowflakes' d'un descripteur météorologique à une insulte cinglante est un cas fascinant de glissement sémantique.

Noun + of + noun + from... to...

Wilson Bentley's exhaustive catalog of snowflakes remains a seminal work in the field of crystallography.

Le catalogue exhaustif des flocons de neige de Wilson Bentley reste une œuvre séminale dans le domaine de la cristallographie.

Possessive + adjective + noun.

The snowflakes' descent was erratic, buffeted by the turbulent winds of the alpine pass.

La descente des flocons de neige était erratique, malmenée par les vents turbulents du col alpin.

Past participle phrase 'buffeted by...'.

To dismiss a generation as 'snowflakes' is to ignore the structural challenges they face.

Rejeter une génération en tant que 'snowflakes', c'est ignorer les défis structurels auxquels elle est confrontée.

Infinitive phrase as subject and complement.

The interplay of temperature and supersaturation dictates the morphological complexity of the snowflakes.

L'interaction de la température et de la sursaturation dicte la complexité morphologique des flocons de neige.

Subject-verb agreement with 'interplay'.

The snowflakes settled with a ghostly silence upon the abandoned ruins.

Les flocons de neige se sont déposés avec un silence fantomatique sur les ruines abandonnées.

Prepositional phrase 'with a ghostly silence'.

자주 쓰는 조합

delicate snowflakes

falling snowflakes

individual snowflakes

swirling snowflakes

paper snowflakes

giant snowflakes

unique snowflakes

stray snowflakes

intricate snowflakes

wet snowflakes

자주 쓰는 구문

No two snowflakes are alike

— Used to emphasize that every person or thing is unique.

Remember, no two snowflakes are alike, and neither are you.

Catching snowflakes

— A playful winter activity, often with the tongue.

The kids were outside catching snowflakes.

Snowflake generation

— A derogatory term for young people perceived as fragile.

The article criticized the so-called snowflake generation.

Like a snowflake

— Describing something very delicate or unique.

Her beauty was as fleeting as a snowflake.

Snowflake pattern

— A design that looks like a snowflake.

The sweater had a beautiful snowflake pattern.

A flurry of snowflakes

— A sudden, light fall of snow.

A flurry of snowflakes passed through the valley.

Snowflake obsidian

— A type of volcanic glass with white spots.

She wore a necklace made of snowflake obsidian.

First snowflakes

— The beginning of the winter season.

The first snowflakes are always a magical sight.

Snowflake Bentley

— A reference to the famous snowflake photographer.

We read a book about Snowflake Bentley in science class.

Digital snowflakes

— Snowflake effects used in videos or games.

The game features realistic digital snowflakes.

자주 혼동되는 단어

snowflakes vs Snow

Snow is the mass; snowflakes are the individual units.

snowflakes vs Hail

Hail is hard ice; snowflakes are soft crystals.

snowflakes vs Sleet

Sleet is frozen rain; snowflakes are crystals formed from vapor.

관용어 및 표현

"A snowflake's chance in hell"

— No chance at all of succeeding.

He has a snowflake's chance in hell of winning the race.

informal

"To be a snowflake"

— To be overly sensitive or easily offended.

Don't be such a snowflake; it was just a joke.

slang/derogatory

"Unique snowflake"

— Often used sarcastically to mock someone's sense of self-importance.

He thinks he's a unique snowflake who doesn't have to follow rules.

informal/sarcastic

"Snowflake effect"

— When a small event triggers a large, complex reaction.

The minor error had a snowflake effect on the whole project.

business/technical

"Melt like a snowflake"

— To disappear or lose courage very quickly.

His confidence melted like a snowflake in the sun.

literary

"Pure as a snowflake"

— Completely innocent or clean.

She looked as pure as a snowflake in her white dress.

poetic

"Snowflake drifting"

— Moving aimlessly or without a clear path.

He spent his youth snowflake drifting from job to job.

literary

"Winter's snowflakes"

— A metaphor for the arrival of old age (white hair).

Winter's snowflakes had begun to settle on his temples.

poetic

"To hunt snowflakes"

— To look for something that is impossible to find or keep.

Searching for perfect justice is like hunting snowflakes.

philosophical

"Snowflake soul"

— A person who is very delicate and beautiful but easily hurt.

She had a snowflake soul that needed protection.

literary

혼동하기 쉬운

snowflakes vs Flakes

Both refer to small pieces.

Snowflakes are specifically ice; flakes can be skin, paint, or cereal.

The paint came off in flakes, not snowflakes.

snowflakes vs Frost

Both are frozen water on surfaces.

Frost forms directly on surfaces; snowflakes form in the air and fall.

The window had frost, but the ground had snowflakes.

snowflakes vs Ice

Both are frozen water.

Ice is the solid state; snowflakes are a specific crystalline form of that state.

The lake was covered in ice, and the ice was covered in snowflakes.

snowflakes vs Slush

Both are related to snow.

Slush is melting, watery snow; snowflakes are fresh and dry.

The beautiful snowflakes quickly turned into brown slush.

snowflakes vs Blizzard

Both involve snow.

A blizzard is a storm; snowflakes are the particles in the storm.

The blizzard was made of billions of tiny snowflakes.

문장 패턴

I see [adjective] snowflakes.

I see white snowflakes.

The snowflakes are [verb-ing].

The snowflakes are falling.

Every snowflake is [adjective].

Every snowflake is unique.

Snowflakes [verb] on the [noun].

Snowflakes accumulate on the roof.

The [adjective] of the snowflakes [verb].

The intricate geometry of the snowflakes fascinated him.

The [noun] use of 'snowflakes' [verb].

The pejorative use of 'snowflakes' reflects social tension.

There are [number] snowflakes on [noun].

There are three snowflakes on your coat.

Despite the [noun], the snowflakes [verb].

Despite the wind, the snowflakes settled quietly.

어휘 가족

명사

snowflake

snowfall

snow

snowstorm

동사

snow

flake

형용사

snowy

flaky

사용법

frequency

Very high during winter months; high in political social media year-round.

자주 하는 실수

The ground is covered in snowflakes. → The ground is covered in snow.
While snowflakes make up the snow, once it's a pile, we usually use the mass noun 'snow'.
Every snowflakes is different. → Every snowflake is different.
'Every' must be followed by a singular noun.
I saw many snows today. → I saw many snowflakes today.
'Snow' is uncountable; 'snowflakes' is countable.
He is a unique snowflake (as a compliment). → He is truly unique.
In modern English, 'snowflake' is often seen as an insult, so it's a poor choice for a compliment.
The snowflakes was beautiful. → The snowflakes were beautiful.
Plural subjects need plural verbs.

팁

Use specific verbs

Instead of just saying snowflakes 'fall,' use 'drift,' 'swirl,' or 'flutter' to create better imagery.

Count vs Mass

Remember: 'There is much snow' but 'There are many snowflakes.' Don't mix them up!

Context is King

In a political context, 'snowflake' is an insult. In a weather context, it is a beautiful noun.

Long Vowels

Keep the 'o' in snow and the 'a' in flakes long and clear.

Sensory Details

Describe how snowflakes feel (cold, wet) and look (sparkling, white) to engage the reader.

Be Careful

Avoid calling people 'snowflakes' in professional settings; it's very informal and aggressive.

Hexagonal Symmetry

Remember that snowflakes always have six sides when you are drawing or describing them.

Snowflake's chance

Use 'a snowflake's chance in hell' to describe something that is impossible.

Paper Snowflakes

Making paper snowflakes is a great way to learn about symmetry and winter vocabulary.

Tone Check

If someone sounds angry while saying 'snowflake,' they aren't talking about the weather.

암기하기

기억법

Think of 'Snow' + 'Flakes'. Snow is the cold stuff, and flakes are the little pieces, like cornflakes but made of ice.

시각적 연상

Imagine a giant, six-sided star made of glass falling slowly onto a black velvet glove.

Word Web

winter cold white unique ice crystal melt sky

챌린지

Try to describe five different things using the word 'snowflakes' in five minutes.

어원

The word is a compound of 'snow' (from Old English 'snaw') and 'flake' (from Old English 'flace'). It has been used in English for centuries to describe ice crystals.

원래 의미: A small piece or 'flake' of snow.

Germanic (English/Old Norse/German roots).

문화적 맥락

Be careful using the slang version; it is often considered an insult and can be offensive.

Very common in winter weather talk and increasingly common in political arguments.

Snowflake Bentley (photographer) Fight Club (novel/movie) White Christmas (song)

실생활에서 연습하기

실제 사용 상황

Weather Forecast

Light snowflakes expected
Heavy snowflakes falling
Snowflakes turning to rain
Scattered snowflakes

Political Debate

The snowflake generation
Stop being a snowflake
Triggered snowflakes
Snowflake culture

Art & Crafts

Cut out paper snowflakes
Snowflake patterns
Glittery snowflakes
Symmetrical snowflakes

Nature Photography

Macro snowflake photography
Capturing ice crystals
Snowflake structure
Unique snowflake shapes

Poetry

Fleeting snowflakes
Dancing snowflakes
Silent snowflakes
Winter's snowflakes

대화 시작하기

"Do you remember the first time you saw real snowflakes?"

"What do you think about the modern slang use of the word 'snowflake'?"

"Have you ever tried to photograph individual snowflakes?"

"In your country, are snowflakes a common sight during winter?"

"Why do you think people are so fascinated by the fact that no two snowflakes are alike?"

일기 주제

Describe a winter scene using the word 'snowflakes' at least five times to create a specific mood.

Write about a time you felt 'unique like a snowflake.' What made that moment special?

Discuss your opinion on the 'snowflake generation' label. Is it fair or unfair?

Imagine you are a scientist discovering a new type of snowflake. Describe its shape and how it formed.

Compare the feeling of snowflakes on your skin to other natural elements like rain or wind.

자주 묻는 질문

10 질문

Yes, scientifically, the number of ways water molecules can arrange themselves is so vast that it is statistically impossible for two snowflakes to be identical.

This is due to the molecular structure of water, which forms hexagonal shapes when it freezes into ice crystals.

The modern insult gained popularity around 2016, though it was used in the movie 'Fight Club' in the late 1990s.

Yes, you can count them. One snowflake, two snowflakes. 'Snow' is the uncountable version.

Yes, if the air higher up is cold enough, snowflakes can reach the ground before they melt, even if the surface temperature is slightly above 0°C.

The largest recorded snowflake was reportedly 15 inches (38 cm) wide, found in Montana in 1887.

Snow itself doesn't have a strong smell, but the cold air often carries a 'crisp' scent that people associate with snowflakes.

They are actually clear ice, but the many surfaces of the crystal reflect light in all directions, making them appear white to our eyes.

They fall much slower than raindrops because they are lighter and have more air resistance.

It is risky. While it means 'unique,' many people will interpret it as the modern insult. Use 'unique' or 'special' instead.

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