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B1 noun #12,000 mais comum 8 min de leitura

bourrasque

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bourrasque em 30 segundos

  • A bourrasque is a sudden, strong, and brief gust of wind.
  • It's more intense and abrupt than a regular breeze.
  • Often associated with stormy or rapidly changing weather.
  • Think of it as a powerful, momentary push of air.
A bourrasque refers to a sudden, strong, and usually short-lived gust of wind. It's a more dramatic and forceful term than a simple breeze. You'll often hear it used in meteorological contexts, but it also appears in literature and everyday conversation to describe abrupt changes in wind. Think of it as a mini-storm of wind, a sudden push that can catch you off guard. It implies a certain intensity and unexpectedness. A bourrasque can be quite disruptive, making it difficult to walk or even stand still if it's strong enough. It's often associated with stormy weather, but can occur even on otherwise clear days if atmospheric conditions are right. The word evokes a sense of power and a fleeting but impactful event. It's important to distinguish a bourrasque from a continuous strong wind, as the former is characterized by its sudden onset and brevity. Imagine stepping outside and being momentarily pushed back by an invisible force – that's the essence of a bourrasque. It can also be used metaphorically to describe sudden bursts of other things, like emotions or activity, but its primary meaning is meteorological. The feeling it conveys is one of being surprised and perhaps slightly overwhelmed by a powerful natural force. It’s a word that paints a vivid picture of nature's unpredictable and sometimes violent displays.
Synonyms
Rafale (very common), coup de vent (more general), coup de sirocco (specific wind), coup de mistral (specific wind).
Antonyms
Calme (calm), brise (breeze), vent léger (light wind).

The sudden bourrasque nearly blew my umbrella inside out.

We had to take shelter from the bourrasque that swept across the beach.

Usage Contexts
Weather reports, descriptions of outdoor activities (sailing, hiking), literary descriptions of nature, discussions about unexpected weather changes.
Using bourrasque effectively in French requires understanding its connotation of suddenness and intensity. It's a noun, so it will typically be preceded by an article (un, une, des, le, la, les) or a possessive adjective. The most common use is in relation to weather. For example, you can say 'une bourrasque de vent' (a gust of wind). This phrase emphasizes the sudden, forceful nature of the wind. You might also encounter it in the plural, 'des bourrasques', to describe multiple sudden gusts. In a narrative, a bourrasque can add drama. 'Le bateau a été secoué par une violente bourrasque.' (The boat was shaken by a violent gust of wind.) It can also be used metaphorically, though this is less common for B1 learners. For instance, 'une bourrasque d'idées' could mean a sudden rush of ideas. However, stick to the meteorological meaning for clarity at this level. When describing an event, you can use verbs like 'souffler' (to blow) or 'venir' (to come) with bourrasque. For instance, 'Une bourrasque est venue soudainement.' (A gust suddenly came.) It's often contrasted with gentler wind conditions. If someone is planning an outdoor activity, they might ask about the wind: 'Y aura-t-il des bourrasques aujourd'hui?' (Will there be any strong gusts today?). Remember that bourrasque implies a brief but powerful event. It's not a continuous strong wind. The word itself carries a sense of abruptness and force, making it a vivid choice of vocabulary.
Grammar Note
Bourrasque is a feminine noun. Its plural form is bourrasques.

The sailor braced himself for the next bourrasque.

A sudden bourrasque made it difficult to keep our footing.

You're most likely to encounter the word bourrasque in contexts related to weather and nature. French weather forecasts frequently use it to describe sudden, strong winds, especially if they are expected to be brief but impactful. For instance, a meteorologist might say, 'Attention, des bourrasques de vent sont annoncées cet après-midi.' (Attention, strong gusts of wind are forecast for this afternoon.) Beyond formal weather reports, it's common in descriptions of outdoor activities, particularly those involving wind, such as sailing, kite-surfing, or even hiking in exposed areas. A sailor might recount, 'Nous avons été pris dans une bourrasque imprévue qui a failli nous faire chavirer.' (We were caught in an unforeseen squall that almost capsized us.) In literature and more descriptive writing, bourrasque is used to add a sense of drama and dynamism to a scene. An author might describe a storm approaching: 'Le ciel s'est assombri, et une bourrasque a fait claquer les volets.' (The sky darkened, and a gust made the shutters bang.) You might also hear it in casual conversation when people are discussing recent weather events, especially if those events were sudden or disruptive. For example, 'Quel temps bizarre hier, il y a eu une bourrasque terrible pendant cinq minutes, puis le soleil est revenu.' (What strange weather yesterday, there was a terrible gust for five minutes, then the sun came back.) While its primary meaning is literal, in more figurative language, it can describe sudden surges of emotion or activity, though this is less frequent and more advanced. For learners, focusing on its meteorological usage is key. It's a word that conveys a specific type of wind event: sudden, strong, and transient.
Common Phrases
Une bourrasque de vent, des bourrasques soudaines, être surpris par une bourrasque.

The news reported several bourrasques along the coast.

He described the moment a bourrasque hit his tent.

Learners might make a few common mistakes when using the word bourrasque. The most frequent error is confusing it with a continuous strong wind. Bourrasque specifically denotes a sudden, brief gust, not a sustained wind. So, saying 'le vent souffle avec une bourrasque' for hours would be incorrect. It should be used for a momentary, powerful gust. Another potential mistake is with gender. Bourrasque is a feminine noun, so it requires feminine articles and adjectives (une, la, cette). Using masculine forms like 'un bourrasque' or 'le bourrasque' would be grammatically wrong. Some learners might also overuse it metaphorically before they are comfortable with its primary meaning. While it can be used figuratively, it's safer for B1 learners to stick to its literal meteorological sense. If you're unsure, use a more general term like 'vent fort' (strong wind) or 'rafale' (gust), which is a very common synonym. Pronunciation can also be a challenge. The 'ou' sound is like in 'food', and the 'rr' is rolled. The final 'e' is often silent or very soft. Mispronouncing it might make it hard for native speakers to understand. Finally, some may incorrectly use it as a verb. Bourrasque is a noun, not a verb. You cannot 'bourrasquer' something; you would say 'le vent bourrasque' (the wind gusts) or 'une bourrasque souffle' (a gust blows).
Mistake Example
Incorrect: 'Il y a eu une bourrasque pendant toute la nuit.' (There was a gust all night.) Correct: 'Il y a eu des bourrasques soudaines pendant la nuit, mais le vent n'était pas continu.' (There were sudden gusts during the night, but the wind wasn't continuous.)

Confusing bourrasque with a continuous strong wind is a common error.

While bourrasque is a precise term for a sudden, strong gust of wind, several other words and phrases can be used depending on the nuance you want to convey. The most common and direct synonym is rafale. Both rafale and bourrasque refer to a gust of wind, often strong and sudden. However, rafale is generally more common in everyday French and can sometimes be used for slightly less intense gusts than bourrasque, though they are often interchangeable. Coup de vent is a more general phrase meaning 'gust of wind' or 'blast of wind'. It's less specific about the suddenness and intensity compared to bourrasque. It can describe a strong wind that lasts a bit longer. For a very light wind, you would use brise (breeze) or vent léger (light wind). These are direct opposites in terms of intensity. If the wind is continuous and strong, you would use vent fort (strong wind) or, if it's a storm, tempête (storm). For learners, rafale is an excellent alternative to bourrasque as it is very widely used and understood. Bourrasque adds a touch more drama and emphasis on the suddenness.
Comparison
Bourrasque vs. Rafale: Both mean gust of wind. Bourrasque often implies a more violent or surprising gust. Rafale is more common and can be used for a wider range of gusts.
Bourrasque vs. Coup de vent: Coup de vent is more general, meaning a blast of wind. Bourrasque is more specific about the sudden, intense nature of the gust.
Bourrasque vs. Vent fort: Vent fort means strong wind, implying a continuous force, whereas bourrasque is a sudden, brief gust.

Instead of bourrasque, one could also say rafale.

A coup de vent can be a good alternative when the gust isn't extremely violent.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

"Les bulletins météorologiques avertissent de potentielles bourrasques atteignant les 80 km/h."

Neutro

"Une bourrasque de vent a fait tomber la poubelle dehors."

Informal

"Ouh là, quelle bourrasque !"

Child friendly

"Attention, le vent fait une grosse bourrasque !"

Curiosidade

The word 'bourrasque' is particularly evocative in maritime contexts, where sudden and violent gusts of wind can pose significant dangers to ships. Its origin in Italian and possible links to words meaning 'fury' or 'storm' highlight its association with powerful, untamed natural forces.

Guia de pronúncia

UK /bu.ʁas k/
US /bu.ʁas k/
The stress is on the last syllable: bour-ras-QUE.
Rima com
masque casque tasque râsle pâle fâle bâle gale
Erros comuns
  • Pronouncing the 'r' too lightly or like an English 'r'.
  • Making the 'ou' sound too short or like the 'u' in 'but'.
  • Not pronouncing the final 'k' sound clearly.
  • Confusing the vowel sounds, especially the 'a'.

Nível de dificuldade

Leitura 60/5

The word itself is not overly complex, but understanding its nuances (suddenness, intensity) requires some context. It's commonly found in descriptive texts and weather reports.

Escrita 65/5

Using it correctly requires attention to gender and the specific meaning of a sudden, brief gust. Overuse or misuse with continuous wind can be an issue.

Expressão oral 60/5

Pronunciation needs practice. Conveying the sense of suddenness and intensity in speech is key.

Audição 55/5

It's a distinct word, and in the context of weather, it's usually understandable. However, distinguishing it from similar words like 'rafale' might require careful listening.

O que aprender depois

Pré-requisitos

vent fort soudain violent pluie orage

Aprenda a seguir

rafale coup de vent météorologie prévisions tempête

Avançado

zéphyr brise coup de sirocco coup de mistral cyclone

Gramática essencial

Gender of Nouns: 'Bourrasque' is a feminine noun.

une bourrasque, la bourrasque, cette bourrasque

Pluralization of Nouns: Most French nouns ending in '-que' form their plural by adding '-s'.

bourrasque -> bourrasques

Adjective Agreement: Adjectives modifying 'bourrasque' must agree in gender and number.

une bourrasque violente, des bourrasques soudaines

Use of Articles: 'Bourrasque' typically takes indefinite ('une', 'des') or definite ('la', 'les') articles.

J'ai vu une bourrasque. La bourrasque était forte.

Prepositions with Weather: Common prepositions used with weather phenomena.

une bourrasque de vent, sous une bourrasque, après la bourrasque

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Exemplos por nível

1

Le vent souffle fort.

The wind is blowing hard.

Simple present tense, 'souffler fort' means to blow hard.

2

Il y a du vent aujourd'hui.

There is wind today.

'Il y a du vent' is a common way to say 'it is windy'.

3

Attention, le vent est soudain.

Watch out, the wind is sudden.

'Soudain' means sudden.

4

Une grosse bourrasque !

A big gust!

Exclamatory use of 'bourrasque'.

5

Le vent est parti vite.

The wind left quickly.

Past tense, 'parti vite' means left quickly.

6

C'est une bourrasque.

It's a gust.

Simple identification of the phenomenon.

7

Le vent fait peur.

The wind is scary.

'Faire peur' means to be scary.

8

Une bourrasque sur la mer.

A gust on the sea.

Specifying the location of the gust.

1

Une forte bourrasque a secoué l'arbre.

A strong gust shook the tree.

Past tense (passé composé), 'secouer' means to shake.

2

Nous avons vu une bourrasque sur le lac.

We saw a gust on the lake.

Past tense of 'voir' (to see).

3

Attention à la bourrasque !

Watch out for the gust!

Imperative form of 'faire attention'.

4

Le bateau a résisté à la bourrasque.

The boat resisted the gust.

Past tense of 'résister' (to resist).

5

Une bourrasque soudaine a arrêté le vent.

A sudden gust stopped the wind.

'Soudaine' (sudden) modifies 'bourrasque'.

6

J'ai senti une bourrasque glaciale.

I felt an icy gust.

'Glaciale' (icy) describes the gust.

7

La bourrasque a fait tomber des feuilles.

The gust made leaves fall.

Past tense of 'faire tomber' (to make fall).

8

On s'est abrités d'une bourrasque.

We took shelter from a gust.

Reflexive verb 's'abriter' (to take shelter).

1

Une violente bourrasque a balayé la plage, forçant les baigneurs à quitter l'eau.

A violent squall swept the beach, forcing swimmers to leave the water.

'Violente' (violent) and 'balayer' (to sweep) add detail. 'Forçant' (forcing) shows consequence.

2

Les météorologues ont annoncé des bourrasques imprévues pour la soirée.

Meteorologists announced unforeseen gusts for the evening.

'Météorologues' (meteorologists), 'annoncé' (announced), 'imprévues' (unforeseen).

3

Le voilier a dû faire face à une bourrasque redoutable.

The sailboat had to face a formidable squall.

'Voilier' (sailboat), 'faire face à' (to face), 'redoutable' (formidable).

4

Après la pluie, une bourrasque soudaine a dispersé les nuages.

After the rain, a sudden squall dispersed the clouds.

'Après la pluie' (after the rain), 'dispersé' (dispersed).

5

Il est difficile de marcher quand une bourrasque vous frappe de côté.

It is difficult to walk when a squall hits you from the side.

'Difficile de marcher' (difficult to walk), 'vous frappe de côté' (hits you from the side).

6

La bourrasque a arraché quelques tuiles du toit.

The squall tore off a few tiles from the roof.

'Arracher' (to tear off), 'tuiles' (tiles), 'du toit' (from the roof).

7

Nous avons dû renoncer à notre pique-nique à cause des bourrasques.

We had to give up our picnic because of the squalls.

'Renoncer à' (to give up), 'pique-nique' (picnic).

8

La force de la bourrasque nous a surpris.

The force of the squall surprised us.

'La force de' (the force of), 'nous a surpris' (surprised us).

1

Les prévisions météorologiques annonçaient des bourrasques atteignant 100 km/h.

The weather forecasts announced gusts reaching 100 km/h.

'Prévisions météorologiques' (weather forecasts), 'atteignant' (reaching).

2

La bourrasque a momentanément interrompu la connexion internet.

The squall momentarily interrupted the internet connection.

'Momentanément' (momentarily), 'interrompu' (interrupted), 'connexion internet' (internet connection).

3

Il est essentiel de sécuriser les objets extérieurs avant l'arrivée des bourrasques.

It is essential to secure outdoor objects before the arrival of the squalls.

'Essentiel de' (essential to), 'sécuriser' (to secure), 'objets extérieurs' (outdoor objects).

4

Le bruit de la bourrasque contre les vitres était assourdissant.

The sound of the squall against the windows was deafening.

'Le bruit de' (the sound of), 'vitres' (windows), 'assourdissant' (deafening).

5

Les organisateurs ont dû reporter l'événement en raison des bourrasques annoncées.

The organizers had to postpone the event due to the announced squalls.

'Organisateurs' (organizers), 'reporter' (to postpone), 'en raison de' (due to).

6

La bourrasque a failli emporter le parasol.

The squall almost carried away the patio umbrella.

'Failli' (almost, nearly), 'emporter' (to carry away), 'parasol' (patio umbrella).

7

Les marins expérimentés savent anticiper les changements de vent, y compris les bourrasques.

Experienced sailors know how to anticipate wind changes, including squalls.

'Marins expérimentés' (experienced sailors), 'anticiper' (to anticipate), 'changements de vent' (wind changes).

8

Une bourrasque passagère a brièvement perturbé le vol.

A passing squall briefly disrupted the flight.

'Passagère' (passing), 'brièvement' (briefly), 'perturbé' (disrupted), 'vol' (flight).

1

La soudaineté de la bourrasque a pris les randonneurs au dépourvu, les obligeant à chercher un abri.

The suddenness of the squall caught the hikers unprepared, forcing them to seek shelter.

'Soudaineté' (suddenness), 'pris au dépourvu' (caught unprepared), 'obligeant' (forcing).

2

Les modèles météorologiques peinent parfois à prédire avec exactitude l'intensité et la trajectoire des bourrasques.

Weather models sometimes struggle to accurately predict the intensity and trajectory of squalls.

'Modèles météorologiques' (weather models), 'peinent à' (struggle to), 'prédire avec exactitude' (predict accurately), 'trajectoire' (trajectory).

3

La bourrasque, tel un coup de poing du ciel, a fait chavirer le petit esquif.

The squall, like a punch from the sky, capsized the small dinghy.

Metaphorical comparison, 'tel un coup de poing' (like a punch), 'esquif' (dinghy).

4

L'agriculture moderne cherche des solutions pour atténuer les effets dévastateurs des bourrasques sur les cultures.

Modern agriculture seeks solutions to mitigate the devastating effects of squalls on crops.

'Agriculture moderne' (modern agriculture), 'atténuer' (to mitigate), 'effets dévastateurs' (devastating effects), 'cultures' (crops).

5

La bourrasque a soulevé une tempête de poussière, réduisant la visibilité à néant.

The squall kicked up a dust storm, reducing visibility to zero.

'Soulevé une tempête de poussière' (kicked up a dust storm), 'réduisant la visibilité à néant' (reducing visibility to zero).

6

Il est rare qu'une seule bourrasque suffise à endommager une structure aussi solide, mais celle-ci était exceptionnellement intense.

It is rare for a single squall to be enough to damage such a solid structure, but this one was exceptionally intense.

'Rare qu'une seule... suffise' (rare that a single... is enough), 'structure solide' (solid structure), 'exceptionnellement intense' (exceptionally intense).

7

Les navigateurs doivent faire preuve d'une grande prudence face aux bourrasques soudaines qui peuvent survenir même par beau temps.

Navigators must exercise great caution in the face of sudden squalls that can occur even in fair weather.

'Faire preuve de' (to exercise, show), 'grande prudence' (great caution), 'survenir' (to occur, happen).

8

La bourrasque, une manifestation éphémère mais puissante de la colère de la nature, a laissé derrière elle un paysage transformé.

The squall, an ephemeral but powerful manifestation of nature's anger, left behind a transformed landscape.

'Manifestation éphémère' (ephemeral manifestation), 'colère de la nature' (nature's anger), 'paysage transformé' (transformed landscape).

1

La trajectoire erratique de la bourrasque a rendu toute tentative de prévision précise futile.

The erratic trajectory of the squall rendered any attempt at precise forecasting futile.

'Trajectoire erratique' (erratic trajectory), 'toute tentative de' (any attempt at), 'futile' (futile).

2

L'impact psychologique d'une bourrasque soudaine et violente peut être disproportionné par rapport aux dégâts matériels.

The psychological impact of a sudden and violent squall can be disproportionate to the material damage.

'Impact psychologique' (psychological impact), 'disproportionné par rapport à' (disproportionate to), 'dégâts matériels' (material damage).

3

Les récits des anciens marins regorgent d'anecdotes sur des bourrasques qui ont mis à l'épreuve la résilience des équipages.

The accounts of old sailors are full of anecdotes about squalls that tested the resilience of the crews.

'Récits' (accounts), 'regorgent d'anecdotes' (are full of anecdotes), 'mis à l'épreuve' (tested), 'résilience' (resilience), 'équipages' (crews).

4

La bourrasque, loin d'être un simple phénomène météorologique, symbolisait souvent la capricieuse force de la nature.

The squall, far from being a simple meteorological phenomenon, often symbolized the capricious force of nature.

'Loin d'être' (far from being), 'symbolisait' (symbolized), 'capricieuse' (capricious).

5

L'architecture moderne doit tenir compte de la possibilité de bourrasques extrêmes, même dans des régions habituellement calmes.

Modern architecture must take into account the possibility of extreme squalls, even in usually calm regions.

'Tenir compte de' (to take into account), 'extrêmes' (extreme), 'habituellement calmes' (usually calm).

6

La bourrasque a agi comme un catalyseur, précipitant la chute de l'arbre déjà affaibli.

The squall acted as a catalyst, precipitating the fall of the already weakened tree.

'Agir comme un catalyseur' (acted as a catalyst), 'précipitant' (precipitating), 'affaibli' (weakened).

7

Dans les récits de survie, la bourrasque est souvent dépeinte comme un antagoniste redoutable, défiant l'ingéniosité humaine.

In survival stories, the squall is often depicted as a formidable antagonist, challenging human ingenuity.

'Dépeinte comme' (depicted as), 'antagoniste' (antagonist), 'défiant' (challenging), 'ingéniosité humaine' (human ingenuity).

8

La bourrasque n'était qu'un avant-goût des conditions météorologiques dégradées qui allaient suivre.

The squall was merely a foretaste of the deteriorating weather conditions that were to follow.

'Avant-goût' (foretaste), 'météorologiques dégradées' (deteriorating weather), 'allaient suivre' (were to follow).

Colocações comuns

une violente bourrasque
une soudaine bourrasque
une bourrasque de vent
les bourrasques annoncées
faire face à une bourrasque
être surpris par une bourrasque
une bourrasque glaciale
une bourrasque passagère
les effets d'une bourrasque
une bourrasque redoutable

Frases Comuns

une bourrasque de vent

— A gust of wind. This is the most common and direct way to refer to a gust of wind using this word.

Nous avons été surpris par une forte bourrasque de vent.

une violente bourrasque

— A violent gust of wind. This emphasizes the intensity and force of the wind.

Une violente bourrasque a fait tomber un arbre dans le jardin.

une soudaine bourrasque

— A sudden gust of wind. This highlights the unexpected and abrupt nature of the wind.

Une soudaine bourrasque nous a obligés à nous réfugier.

les bourrasques annoncées

— The announced gusts of wind. This refers to gusts that have been predicted by weather forecasts.

Les bourrasques annoncées ont conduit à l'annulation de la fête en plein air.

faire face à une bourrasque

— To face or confront a gust of wind. This implies dealing with the force of the wind.

Le skipper a dû faire face à une bourrasque imprévue.

être surpris par une bourrasque

— To be surprised by a gust of wind. This describes the unexpected nature of the event.

Nous étions en train de marcher quand nous avons été surpris par une bourrasque.

une bourrasque passagère

— A passing gust of wind. This emphasizes that the gust is short-lived.

La pluie s'est arrêtée après une bourrasque passagère.

les effets d'une bourrasque

— The effects or consequences of a gust of wind.

Il faudra évaluer les effets de la dernière bourrasque sur le toit.

une bourrasque glaciale

— An icy or freezing gust of wind. This describes the temperature of the wind.

Une bourrasque glaciale nous a fait regretter de ne pas avoir mis un manteau plus chaud.

une bourrasque redoutable

— A formidable or fearsome gust of wind. This implies a very strong and potentially dangerous gust.

Les marins ont parlé d'une bourrasque redoutable qui a mis leur navire à rude épreuve.

Frequentemente confundido com

bourrasque vs rafale

'Rafale' is a very close synonym, also meaning a gust of wind. 'Bourrasque' often implies a stronger, more violent, or more sudden gust than 'rafale', though they are frequently interchangeable.

bourrasque vs vent fort

'Vent fort' means 'strong wind' and refers to a continuous period of high wind speed, whereas 'bourrasque' is specifically a sudden, brief gust.

bourrasque vs tempête

'Tempête' means 'storm' and is a much larger-scale weather event. A 'bourrasque' can be a component of a storm, but it is a much shorter and localized phenomenon.

Expressões idiomáticas

"Une bourrasque d'idées"

— A sudden rush or flood of ideas. This is a metaphorical use of the word, comparing a rapid influx of thoughts to a strong gust of wind.

Après avoir lu ce livre, j'ai eu une véritable bourrasque d'idées pour mon prochain projet.

Figurative
"Une bourrasque de colère"

— A sudden outburst of anger. Similar to the previous idiom, this likens an intense but potentially short-lived emotional surge to a wind gust.

Il a eu une bourrasque de colère contre le service client, mais il s'est calmé rapidement.

Figurative
"Comme une bourrasque"

— Like a gust of wind; very suddenly and quickly.

Elle est arrivée et repartie comme une bourrasque, sans même nous dire au revoir.

Figurative
"Une bourrasque de critiques"

— A barrage or flood of criticisms.

Le nouveau film a reçu une bourrasque de critiques négatives de la part des spectateurs.

Figurative
"Une bourrasque de vent et de pluie"

— A strong gust of wind accompanied by rain, often describing a brief but intense downpour.

Nous avons été pris dans une bourrasque de vent et de pluie pendant notre randonnée.

Literal/Descriptive
"Une bourrasque d'enthousiasme"

— A sudden surge of enthusiasm.

Quand il a appris la nouvelle, une bourrasque d'enthousiasme l'a envahi.

Figurative
"Une bourrasque de poussière"

— A dust storm or a strong gust of wind that raises a lot of dust.

Le vent a soulevé une bourrasque de poussière qui a rendu la visibilité difficile.

Literal
"Une bourrasque de vent et de neige"

— A snow squall; a sudden gust of wind carrying snow.

La route est devenue dangereuse à cause d'une bourrasque de vent et de neige.

Literal
"Une bourrasque de nouvelles"

— A sudden influx or barrage of news.

Après son voyage, il a été submergé par une bourrasque de nouvelles de ses amis.

Figurative
"Une bourrasque de joie"

— A sudden burst of joy.

En voyant son enfant réussir, une bourrasque de joie l'a submergée.

Figurative

Fácil de confundir

bourrasque vs rafale

Both words describe a gust of wind.

While often interchangeable, 'bourrasque' tends to suggest a more intense, sudden, and potentially violent gust compared to 'rafale', which is a more general term for a gust. Think of 'bourrasque' as a more dramatic 'rafale'.

Une bourrasque soudaine a fait plier les arbres, tandis que des rafales plus légères soufflaient en continu.

bourrasque vs vent

'Vent' is the general word for wind, and 'bourrasque' is a specific type of wind event.

'Vent' refers to the movement of air in general, which can be light, strong, continuous, or gusty. A 'bourrasque' is a specific type of wind event: a sudden, brief, and strong gust.

Le vent soufflait doucement, puis une bourrasque a tout fait voler.

bourrasque vs coup de vent

Both refer to a gust of wind.

'Coup de vent' is a more general and less intense term for a gust of wind. 'Bourrasque' implies a more forceful, sudden, and often more disruptive event.

Il y a eu un petit coup de vent, mais rien comparé à la grosse bourrasque de la semaine dernière.

bourrasque vs souffle

Both can refer to a movement of air.

'Souffle' is typically used for a gentle puff of air or breath. A 'bourrasque' is a strong, forceful gust, the opposite of a gentle 'souffle'.

Un léger souffle d'air a traversé la pièce, mais la bourrasque dehors faisait trembler les fenêtres.

bourrasque vs tempête

Both relate to strong winds.

'Tempête' (storm) is a large-scale, prolonged weather event with strong winds, often with rain or snow. A 'bourrasque' is a short, sudden, intense gust of wind that can occur within or independently of a storm.

La tempête a duré des heures, avec des bourrasques qui arrachaient les branches.

Padrões de frases

A2

Une [adjective] bourrasque [verb in past tense].

Une forte bourrasque a secoué l'arbre.

B1

Une bourrasque [adjective] a [verb in past tense] [object].

Une bourrasque soudaine a dispersé les nuages.

B1

Il est difficile de [verb] quand une bourrasque vous frappe.

Il est difficile de marcher quand une bourrasque vous frappe de côté.

B1

Nous avons dû [verb] à cause des bourrasques.

Nous avons dû renoncer à notre pique-nique à cause des bourrasques.

B2

Les prévisions annonçaient des bourrasques atteignant [speed].

Les prévisions annonçaient des bourrasques atteignant 100 km/h.

B2

La bourrasque a [verb in past tense] [object].

La bourrasque a failli emporter le parasol.

C1

La soudaineté de la bourrasque a [verb in past tense] [noun].

La soudaineté de la bourrasque a pris les randonneurs au dépourvu.

C1

Une bourrasque, [comparison], a [verb in past tense] [object].

La bourrasque, tel un coup de poing du ciel, a fait chavirer le petit esquif.

Família de palavras

Substantivos

Relacionado

rafale
vent
coup
soudain
violente
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Como usar

frequency

Medium. It's not an everyday word for everyone, but it's common enough in contexts involving weather and nature.

Erros comuns
  • Using 'bourrasque' for continuous strong wind. → Using 'vent fort' or 'tempête'.

    'Bourrasque' specifically means a sudden, brief gust. If the wind is blowing strongly for a long time, 'vent fort' is more appropriate. 'Tempête' refers to a storm.

  • Incorrect gender agreement (e.g., 'un bourrasque'). → 'une bourrasque', 'la bourrasque'.

    'Bourrasque' is a feminine noun in French. All articles and adjectives referring to it must be feminine.

  • Pronouncing the 'r' like an English 'r'. → Using the French guttural 'r'.

    The French 'r' is pronounced at the back of the throat. Incorrect pronunciation can make the word hard to understand.

  • Confusing 'bourrasque' with 'souffle' (gentle puff). → Using 'souffle' for gentle air movement and 'bourrasque' for strong gusts.

    'Souffle' implies a very light movement of air, while 'bourrasque' signifies a powerful and sudden gust.

  • Using 'bourrasque' as a verb. → Using verbs like 'souffler' (to blow) or 'venir' (to come) with 'bourrasque' as a noun.

    'Bourrasque' is a noun. You don't 'bourrasque'; rather, a 'bourrasque souffle' (a gust blows) or 'une bourrasque vient' (a gust comes).

Dicas

Mastering the 'R'

The French 'r' in 'bourrasque' is guttural, made at the back of the throat. Practice saying 'ach' or the 'ch' in Scottish 'loch'. This sound is crucial for correct pronunciation.

Gender Matters

'Bourrasque' is feminine. Always use feminine articles ('une', 'la') and ensure any agreeing adjectives are also feminine (e.g., 'une bourrasque violente').

Visual Association

Imagine a bear ('bourre') making a sudden, harsh noise ('rasque') with a powerful gust of wind. This visual and auditory link can help you remember the word and its meaning.

Bourrasque vs. Rafale

While similar, 'bourrasque' often implies a stronger, more violent, or more surprising gust than 'rafale'. Use 'bourrasque' when you want to convey a greater sense of drama or force.

Describe a Sudden Event

Practice describing sudden events in your life (not just wind) using 'bourrasque' metaphorically, like 'une bourrasque d'idées' (a rush of ideas), to solidify its meaning of suddenness and intensity.

Listen to Weather Reports

Watch or listen to French weather forecasts. You'll hear 'bourrasque' used frequently, often alongside other meteorological terms, helping you understand its natural context.

Plural Form

The plural of 'bourrasque' is 'bourrasques'. Remember to adjust articles and adjectives accordingly when talking about multiple gusts: 'des bourrasques violentes'.

Maritime and Nature

This word is particularly common in descriptions related to the sea, sailing, and dramatic natural scenes. Associating it with these contexts can aid recall.

Sentence Building

Create your own sentences using 'bourrasque'. Try to include adjectives that describe its intensity or suddenness, and verbs that show its effect.

Memorize

Mnemônico

Imagine a very strong, angry bear (bourre) who suddenly (rasque) shouts at you with a gust of wind. The 'bourre' sound can remind you of 'bear', and 'rasque' sounds a bit like a sudden, harsh noise.

Associação visual

Picture a scene where a very strong gust of wind suddenly appears, perhaps knocking over a small building or making trees bend dramatically. You could visualize a bear (bourre) looking furious and blowing very hard (rasque).

Word Web

Wind Gust Squall Storm Sudden Force Weather Meteorology

Desafio

Try to describe a time you experienced a sudden strong wind, using the word 'bourrasque' at least three times in your description. Focus on the suddenness and intensity.

Origem da palavra

The word 'bourrasque' likely originates from Italian 'burrasca', meaning 'storm' or 'squall'. This Italian word itself may have roots in Latin or Greek, possibly related to 'furor' (fury, rage) or 'borras' (storm). The term entered French through maritime contexts.

Significado original: Storm, squall.

Indo-European > Italic > Romance > Gallo-Romance > French

Contexto cultural

The word itself is not sensitive. However, its use in describing severe weather could be associated with natural disasters, so context is important.

In English, similar concepts are expressed by words like 'squall', 'gust', 'blast', or 'gale'. 'Squall' is perhaps the closest in meaning, referring to a sudden, violent gust of wind, often accompanied by rain or snow.

The French novel 'L'Étranger' by Albert Camus might contain descriptions of weather that could include strong winds or gusts. French maritime literature and poetry often feature vivid descriptions of the sea and weather, where 'bourrasque' would be a fitting term. French weather forecasts (e.g., on Météo-France) frequently use 'bourrasque' to describe wind conditions.

Pratique na vida real

Contextos reais

Weather Forecasts

  • Attention aux bourrasques.
  • Des bourrasques sont attendues.
  • Une forte bourrasque va frapper.

Outdoor Activities (Sailing, Hiking)

  • Une bourrasque nous a surpris.
  • Il faut faire attention aux bourrasques.
  • La bourrasque a rendu la navigation difficile.

Describing Nature/Scenery

  • Le vent soufflait en bourrasques.
  • Une bourrasque a fait tomber des branches.
  • Le paysage était balayé par les bourrasques.

Literature/Narrative

  • Une bourrasque a frappé la côte.
  • Il s'est abrité d'une bourrasque.
  • La bourrasque a fait claquer les volets.

Casual Conversation about Weather

  • Quel temps ! Il y a eu une grosse bourrasque.
  • On a eu une bourrasque terrible tout à l'heure.
  • J'espère qu'il n'y aura pas de bourrasques ce week-end.

Iniciadores de conversa

"Have you ever been caught in a sudden, strong gust of wind while you were outside?"

"What's the most dramatic weather event you've witnessed where strong winds played a big part?"

"If you were to describe a sudden, powerful wind using just one word in French, what would you choose?"

"How do sudden changes in wind affect your mood or your plans?"

"Imagine you're writing a story about a storm. How would you use the word 'bourrasque' to create tension?"

Temas para diário

Describe a memory where a sudden gust of wind significantly impacted your day or an event. Use the word 'bourrasque' to capture the intensity.

Think about a time you felt surprised or overwhelmed by something sudden and powerful, like a gust of wind. How did you react?

Write a short paragraph describing a coastal scene during a windy day. Incorporate the word 'bourrasque' to depict the wind's behavior.

If you could personify a strong gust of wind, what would its personality be like? How would you describe its actions using 'bourrasque'?

Reflect on how different types of wind (gentle breeze vs. strong gust) make you feel. How does the word 'bourrasque' convey a specific feeling?

Perguntas frequentes

10 perguntas

While 'bourrasque' often describes strong and potentially disruptive winds, it's not inherently negative. It's a descriptive term for a natural phenomenon. However, its intensity means it's frequently associated with situations where it causes inconvenience or potential damage, making it sound negative in context. For example, 'une violente bourrasque' clearly implies a negative impact.

No, the definition of 'bourrasque' inherently includes strength and suddenness. It's specifically a *strong* gust. If the wind is gentle or moderate, you would use words like 'brise' (breeze) or 'vent léger' (light wind).

'Rafale' is a more general term for a gust of wind and is very commonly used. 'Bourrasque' often implies a more violent, sudden, and forceful gust. Think of 'bourrasque' as a particularly dramatic 'rafale'. They are often interchangeable, but 'bourrasque' carries a bit more intensity.

Yes, 'bourrasque' can be used metaphorically, similar to how 'gust' or 'blast' are used in English. For example, 'une bourrasque d'idées' means a sudden rush of ideas, or 'une bourrasque de colère' means a sudden outburst of anger. However, for learners, it's best to master its literal meaning first.

The pronunciation is approximately /bu.ʁas k/. Key points: the 'ou' is like in 'food', the 'r' is guttural (at the back of the throat), the 'a' is open, and the final 'que' sounds like 'k'. The stress is on the last syllable: bour-ras-QUE.

Yes, 'bourrasque' is frequently used in official French weather reports and forecasts, especially when describing sudden, strong gusts of wind that might impact activities or pose a temporary hazard. It adds a layer of specific detail beyond just 'vent fort' (strong wind).

Common adjectives include 'violente' (violent), 'soudaine' (sudden), 'forte' (strong), 'glaciale' (icy), 'passagère' (passing), and 'redoutable' (formidable).

No, 'bourrasque' specifically refers to a *sudden, brief* gust. It implies a short duration, typically lasting only a few moments. For longer periods of strong wind, you would use terms like 'vent fort' or 'tempête'.

'Bourrasque' is a feminine noun. This means you use feminine articles and adjectives with it, like 'une bourrasque' or 'la bourrasque violente'.

The closest English equivalents are 'squall' or 'strong gust of wind'. 'Blast' can also work, especially in metaphorical uses. 'Gale' implies a stronger and longer-lasting wind than a typical 'bourrasque'.

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