A gust is a quick, powerful surge of wind.
Word in 30 Seconds
- Sudden, strong, and short burst of wind.
- Different from a steady, continuous wind.
- Can cause things to move unexpectedly.
Overview
A gust refers to a brief, powerful burst of wind. Unlike a continuous breeze, a gust is intermittent, meaning it comes and goes rapidly. Think of it as a sudden push of air that can be felt for a few seconds before disappearing.
Usage Patterns
The word 'gust' is typically used to describe the behavior of the wind. It can be used to explain why something moved unexpectedly, like a hat blowing off someone's head, or why a door might slam shut. It's a common word in everyday conversation when talking about the weather.
Common Contexts
You'll often hear 'gust' used when describing outdoor activities or situations where wind plays a role. For example, people might talk about a 'gust of wind' during a picnic, while sailing, or when walking on a beach. It's also used in weather forecasts to indicate sudden changes in wind strength. You might hear, 'Expect strong gusts throughout the afternoon.'
Similar Words Comparison
The closest word to 'gust' is 'blast,' which also implies a sudden, strong burst, often of wind or air. However, 'blast' can sometimes suggest a more forceful or even destructive impact. A 'breeze' is a much gentler, steady movement of air, the opposite of a gust. A 'wind' is a general term for moving air, which can be steady or gusty.
Examples
A sudden gust of wind slammed the door shut.
everydayUn coup de vent soudain a claqué la porte.
The sailors had to prepare for strong gusts as the storm approached.
formalLes marins ont dû se préparer à de fortes rafales à l'approche de la tempête.
Whoa, that gust nearly took my umbrella!
informalOups, ce coup de vent a failli m'emporter mon parapluie !
Meteorological reports indicated intermittent gusts reaching speeds of up to 40 mph.
academicLes rapports météorologiques indiquaient des rafales intermittentes atteignant des vitesses allant jusqu'à 40 mph.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
gust of wind
coup de vent
strong gusts
fortes rafales
sudden gust
rafale soudaine
Often Confused With
A breeze is a light, gentle, and steady wind. A gust is a sudden, strong, and brief burst of wind.
A blast often implies a more forceful or even violent burst, sometimes of something other than wind, like an explosion. A gust is specifically a strong burst of wind.
Grammar Patterns
How to Use It
Usage Notes
The word 'gust' is primarily used to describe wind. It emphasizes the suddenness and brevity of the wind's strength. It is a common term in everyday conversation about weather.
Common Mistakes
Learners might confuse 'gust' with a steady wind. Remember that a gust is a short, sharp event, not a continuous flow. Avoid using 'gust' to describe a gentle or prolonged wind.
Tips
Feel the sudden wind!
Imagine a sudden push of air when you hear 'gust'. It's a quick, strong movement.
Beware of sudden gusts!
Strong gusts can surprise you. Hold onto your hat or umbrella when you feel one starting.
Wind in literature
Writers often use 'gusts' to create atmosphere, symbolizing sudden change, passion, or even turmoil in a story.
Word Origin
The word 'gust' comes from the Old Norse word 'gustr,' meaning 'blast of wind.' It has been used in English since the 15th century.
Cultural Context
In many cultures, wind, including gusts, is seen as a powerful force of nature. It can symbolize change, energy, or unpredictability in folklore and literature.
Memory Tip
Think of a 'gust' like a quick 'push' or 'burst' of air. Imagine someone quickly pushing you – that sudden, brief force is like a gust of wind.
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questionsA gust is a sudden, strong, and short burst of wind. A breeze is a gentle and steady movement of air.
Yes, strong gusts can be dangerous. They can blow objects around, make it difficult to walk, or even damage things like trees or outdoor furniture.
Primarily, yes. 'Gust' is almost always used to describe wind. While it can metaphorically refer to a sudden outburst of something else, its core meaning is tied to air movement.
A gust is very brief, typically lasting only a few seconds. It's characterized by its sudden start and quick stop.
Test Yourself
A sudden ___ of wind blew my hat off my head.
A 'gust' is a sudden, strong rush of wind, which fits the context of blowing a hat off.
Which sentence best describes a gust?
This option describes a sudden, strong, and brief wind movement, which is the definition of a gust.
Arrange: gust / a / strong / sudden / was / there
This sentence correctly uses 'gust' as a noun preceded by adjectives describing its nature.
Score: /3
Summary
A gust is a quick, powerful surge of wind.
- Sudden, strong, and short burst of wind.
- Different from a steady, continuous wind.
- Can cause things to move unexpectedly.
Feel the sudden wind!
Imagine a sudden push of air when you hear 'gust'. It's a quick, strong movement.
Beware of sudden gusts!
Strong gusts can surprise you. Hold onto your hat or umbrella when you feel one starting.
Wind in literature
Writers often use 'gusts' to create atmosphere, symbolizing sudden change, passion, or even turmoil in a story.
Examples
4 of 4A sudden gust of wind slammed the door shut.
Un coup de vent soudain a claqué la porte.
The sailors had to prepare for strong gusts as the storm approached.
Les marins ont dû se préparer à de fortes rafales à l'approche de la tempête.
Whoa, that gust nearly took my umbrella!
Oups, ce coup de vent a failli m'emporter mon parapluie !
Meteorological reports indicated intermittent gusts reaching speeds of up to 40 mph.
Les rapports météorologiques indiquaient des rafales intermittentes atteignant des vitesses allant jusqu'à 40 mph.
Quick Quiz
A strong ___ of wind blew the autumn leaves across the garden.
Correct!
The correct answer is: a
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