gale-force winds

Meaning

1. 1phrasefixed phrase

   Very strong winds, typically measured at 34–40 knots or more, capable of causing damage.

   Grammar: Used as a plural noun phrase; it takes a plural verb, as in 'Gale-force winds were blowing.'

   Patterns

   • gale-force winds hit something
   • gale-force winds of up to ...
   • sustained gale-force winds

   The coast guard warned that gale-force winds would make sailing dangerous.

   Gale-force winds knocked down trees and power lines across the region.

   Forecasters expect gale-force winds to continue through the night.

Common combinations

gale-force winds hit

Gale-force winds hit the coast early this morning.

gale-force winds of up to 70 mph

The storm brought gale-force winds of up to 70 mph.

sustained gale-force winds

Sustained gale-force winds caused the ferry to be canceled.

gale-force winds and heavy rain

Gale-force winds and heavy rain battered the town.

Synonyms and how they differ

strong winds

A general term; it does not specify the official speed that 'gale-force' does.

high winds

Often used in warnings but can refer to less severe conditions than gale-force.

storm-force winds

Stronger than gale-force; used for winds of hurricane strength.

Opposites

Word family

gale noun

A very strong wind, especially one of a specified force.

gale-force adjective

Describing wind of gale strength.

Commonly confused: gale-force winds or gale?

Practice

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