cloud of dust

USAGE SUMMARY

"cloud of dust" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used to refer to a literal cloud of dust (i.e. a visible, billowing, powdery mass of small airborne particles.) For example: "The passing car stirred up a cloud of dust as it drove past."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Travel

Sports

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

It collapsed in a cloud of dust.

The New York Times

A huge cloud of dust enveloped them.

The Economist

"Three yards and a cloud of dust.

The Washington Post

Bloomfield stood in the middle of a cloud of dust.

The New Yorker

Both making a pretty big cloud of dust.

The New York Times

Suddenly, we were enveloped in a cloud of dust.

The New Yorker

I looked up and saw a cloud of dust.

The Guardian - Travel

A large cloud of dust enveloped the scrum.

The New York Times

Everything you touched, a cloud of dust would come up.

The New York Times

The 4x4 roars off, kicking up a cloud of dust.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

"But now we're a little more sophisticated than three-yards-and-a-cloud-of-dust.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "cloud of dust" to vividly describe scenes involving movement, impact, or decay. It's especially effective in narratives to create a sense of atmosphere or to emphasize sudden actions.

Common error

Avoid using "cloud of dust" metaphorically when a more precise term exists. While it can work for things that obscure or conceal, overusing it can dilute its impact. Consider alternatives like "fog of uncertainty" or "veil of secrecy" for abstract concepts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cloud of dust" primarily functions as a noun phrase, acting as the subject or object in a sentence. Ludwig AI provides numerous examples showing its use in describing a physical phenomenon, such as a car kicking up dust or a building collapsing.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Travel

15%

Sports

10%

Less common in

Science

8%

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "cloud of dust" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun phrase that vividly describes a mass of airborne particles. Ludwig AI confirms its common usage across various contexts, particularly in news, travel, and sports narratives. While generally neutral in register, it's best used in literal descriptions to avoid diluting its impact. For alternative expressions, consider "puff of dust" or "dust cloud", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Remember to exercise originality and creativity when crafting your sentences and using this common expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

dust cloud

A simple inversion of the original phrase, maintaining the core meaning with a slight shift in emphasis.

puff of dust

Focuses on a small, sudden emission of dust, implying a brief and localized event.

dust plume

Suggests a more elongated and directed cloud of dust, like smoke from a chimney.

swirl of dust

Emphasizes the swirling or circular motion of the dust particles.

haze of dust

Suggests a fine, thin layer of dust that obscures the view.

dust storm

Implies a larger, more intense event with widespread dust and reduced visibility.

airborne dust

Focuses on the state of dust being suspended in the air.

scattering of dust

Suggests the dust is being dispersed in an area, not concentrated in a cloud.

dusty atmosphere

Describes the general air quality with dust present but not necessarily in a cloud formation.

fine dust particles

Highlights the composition of the cloud being made up of microscopic particulates.

FAQs

How can I use "cloud of dust" in a sentence?

You can use "cloud of dust" to describe a visible mass of fine particles in the air, often caused by movement or disturbance. For instance, "The car sped down the dirt road, leaving a "cloud of dust" behind it."

What's a similar phrase to "cloud of dust"?

Similar phrases include "puff of dust", "dust cloud", or "dust plume", each varying slightly in intensity and visual imagery.

Is "cloud of dust" a formal or informal expression?

"Cloud of dust" is a neutral expression suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Its appropriateness depends more on the overall tone of the writing than the phrase itself.

What are some common causes of a "cloud of dust"?

Common causes include vehicles traveling on unpaved roads, explosions, building collapses, and natural events like dust storms. These scenarios often generate a visible "cloud of dust".