a torrent

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a torrent" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a large, fast-moving stream of water or metaphorically to indicate a sudden, overwhelming flow of something, such as emotions or information. Example: "After the storm, the river became a torrent, sweeping away everything in its path."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A torrent has passed.

Independent

Actually, call it a torrent.

The New York Times

Clare poured forth a torrent of poems.

The Economist

Suddenly, the trickle leaped into a torrent.

The New Yorker

This undammed a torrent of hostility.

The Economist

"It was like a torrent of water.

Independent

The encomiums poured forth in a torrent.

The New Yorker

In America, it is a torrent".

The New York Times

That trickle has lately become a torrent.

The New York Times

The creek should have been a torrent.

The New Yorker

It is a torrent of banalities.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a torrent" to emphasize the overwhelming and forceful nature of something, whether it's water, information, or emotions.

Common error

While "a torrent" is a vivid phrase, avoid using it in situations where the flow is only moderate. Overusing it can diminish its impact. Opt for gentler terms like 'stream' or 'flow' for less dramatic situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a torrent" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often acting as the subject or object in a sentence. It describes something flowing rapidly and abundantly, as Ludwig AI shows in its examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Wiki

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a torrent" is a versatile phrase used to describe a forceful and abundant flow, whether literal or metaphorical. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used, particularly in news and media. While generally neutral in register, it adds emphasis and vividness to writing. To maintain impact, avoid overusing it in mundane situations and consider alternatives like "a flood" or "a deluge" depending on the specific context. By understanding these nuances, writers can effectively leverage "a torrent" to enhance their communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a flood

Indicates a large quantity of something, similar to a torrent but often used for water or liquids.

a deluge

Implies a sudden and overwhelming amount, closely resembling the intensity of a torrent.

an outpouring

Describes a strong and uninhibited flow, often used for emotions or reactions.

a cascade

Suggests a flowing descent, often used metaphorically for information or events.

a barrage

Implies a rapid and continuous delivery, similar to a torrent but often used for words or criticism.

a stream

Indicates a continuous flow, less intense than a torrent but still significant.

a rush

Suggests a sudden and quick movement, capturing the speed of a torrent.

a gush

Describes a sudden and forceful flow, often used for liquids or emotions.

a spate

Indicates a large number of similar things occurring in quick succession.

an influx

Implies an inward flow or arrival of something in large quantities.

FAQs

How can I use "a torrent" in a sentence?

You can use "a torrent" to describe a large, fast-moving stream of water, or metaphorically to describe a sudden, overwhelming flow of something. For example, "The creek became a torrent after the heavy rain," or "The politician faced "a torrent of criticism" after the controversial statement".

What's a good alternative to "a torrent"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "a deluge", "a flood", or "an outpouring". Each conveys a sense of abundance and force.

Is it correct to say "torrent of"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct to use "torrent of" followed by whatever is flowing in abundance, such as "a torrent of rain" or "a torrent of emotions".

What is the difference between "a flood" and "a torrent"?

While both describe a large quantity, "a flood" typically refers to an inundation of water over a normally dry area. "A torrent" implies a fast-flowing, turbulent stream, often within a channel but can be used metaphorically for anything overwhelming.