cloud of ash

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cloud of ash" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a large, diffuse mass of ash, often resulting from a volcanic eruption or fire. Example: "After the volcano erupted, a thick cloud of ash enveloped the surrounding villages, causing widespread disruption."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

"A cloud of ash," Mr. Earle said.

The New York Times

But then a huge cloud of ash came pouring out.

The Guardian

Britain had seemed the last holdout, with aviation authorities citing an unexpected new cloud of ash closing on its airspace.

The New York Times

Eventually he escaped through the cloud of ash and dust looking like "a white powdered doughnut," he recalls.

The New York Times

A cloud of ash settled across Europe; 100,000 flights were cancelled; the tourist industry braced itself for another crash.

The Guardian

On 5 April 1815, a titanic explosion hurled a cloud of ash to a height of more than 30km.

The Guardian

JAY LENO The giant cloud of ash over Amsterdam is so bad that you can't even see the giant cloud of hashish.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

In more violent eruptions, the magma conduit is cored out by an explosive blast, and solid fragments are ejected in a great cloud of ash-laden gas that rises tens of thousands of metres into the air.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Lascar, Chile 18,346 5,592 1848 This active volcano frequently ejects clouds of ash and pumice.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Clouds of ash descended on the streets as if in some macabre snowstorm.

The New York Times

Lightning created within their clouds of ash and soot also spawns new fires.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the impact of a volcanic eruption, use "cloud of ash" to vividly portray the visual and environmental consequences.

Common error

While "cloud of ash" is evocative, it's best reserved for situations involving volcanic eruptions, fires, or similar events producing significant particulate matter. Using it metaphorically in other contexts can sound unnatural.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cloud of ash" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a specific type of atmospheric phenomenon consisting of particulate matter. Ludwig's examples show it being used to describe the aftermath of volcanic eruptions or other events producing airborne ash.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

72%

Science

12%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Academia

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "cloud of ash" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun phrase, primarily employed to describe the aftermath of volcanic eruptions, explosions, or large fires. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is appropriate and well-understood in standard English. While its usage is prevalent in news and media, it also finds application in scientific and encyclopedic contexts. When employing this phrase, consider the context and ensure it accurately reflects the presence of a visible mass of airborne ash. For conciseness, the alternative "ash cloud" is a good alternative.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ash cloud

A more concise and commonly used term for the same phenomenon.

volcanic ash cloud

More specific, explicitly indicating the source of the ash.

plume of ash

Describes the shape and movement of the ash.

towering ash cloud

Highlights the height and size of the ash formation.

billowing ash

Emphasizes the movement and volume of ash.

drifting ash cloud

Focuses on the movement and dispersion of the cloud.

dust cloud

Similar, but may refer to non-volcanic ash or particulate matter.

eruption plume

Refers to the general eruption column, which contains ash.

smog cloud

Refers to air pollution, with ash potentially being one component.

ashfall

Describes the event of ash falling from the sky rather than the cloud itself.

FAQs

What's the difference between "cloud of ash" and "ash cloud"?

The terms "cloud of ash" and "ash cloud" are largely interchangeable. "Ash cloud" is simply a more concise and common way to refer to a cloud composed of volcanic ash.

How does a "cloud of ash" affect air travel?

A "cloud of ash" can be extremely dangerous to aircraft. The fine particles can damage engines, reduce visibility, and interfere with critical systems, potentially leading to engine failure and other serious issues. This is why airspaces are often closed when a "cloud of ash" is present.

What can I say instead of "cloud of ash"?

Alternatives to "cloud of ash" include "volcanic plume", "plume of ash", or "ashfall" depending on the specific aspect you want to emphasize. A more generic term could be "dust cloud".

Is it correct to use "cloud of ash" to describe smoke from a fire?

While "cloud of ash" primarily refers to volcanic events, it can be used to describe the particulate-filled smoke from a large fire. However, terms like "smoke plume" or "smog cloud" might be more appropriate depending on the specific context.