clouds of smoke

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "clouds of smoke" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a large, billowing mass of smoke, often in contexts related to fire, pollution, or metaphorical expressions. Example: "As the fire raged on, clouds of smoke filled the sky, obscuring the sun and creating an eerie atmosphere."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Just smoke, clouds of smoke," Mr. Diaz said.

The New York Times

What was in those clouds of smoke?

The New Yorker

You pick your way through clouds of smoke and gas.

The New York Times

Clouds of smoke float in the night air.

The New York Times

And then we'll go to Heaven in clouds of smoke.

The New Yorker

He opened the door and saw heavy clouds of smoke.

The New York Times - Sports

The only thing missing is clouds of smoke.

The New York Times - Food

Dramatic bubbling and clouds of smoke and steam will ensue.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Now and then, clouds of smoke rose over the city.

The New York Times

Clouds of smoke billowed across Ukraine's warring capital.

The Guardian

In clouds of smoke, the Cobra helicopters flew away.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a scene, use "clouds of smoke" to create a vivid image of obscured visibility or intense activity, such as after an explosion or during a fire.

Common error

Avoid using "clouds of smoke" too frequently in metaphorical contexts where it can become cliché. Consider more nuanced imagery to convey abstract concepts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "clouds of smoke" functions primarily as a noun phrase, acting as the subject or object in a sentence. As seen in the examples provided by Ludwig, it is frequently used to describe a visible phenomenon resulting from fire, explosions, or industrial processes.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Academia

15%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "clouds of smoke" is a very common noun phrase used to vividly describe large masses of smoke, often associated with fire, explosions, or industrial processes. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is correct. Its usage is prevalent in News & Media, academic writing, and encyclopedias. While grammatically sound, overuse in metaphorical contexts should be avoided. Semantically related alternatives include "billows of smoke" and "plumes of smoke". Remember to use it judiciously to create impactful imagery.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

smoke clouds

Simple inversion of the original phrase.

billows of smoke

Emphasizes the large, swelling nature of the smoke.

plumes of smoke

Highlights the rising, column-like shape of the smoke.

puffs of smoke

Focuses on smaller, more discrete emissions of smoke.

masses of smoke

Stresses the quantity or bulk of the smoke.

volumes of smoke

Indicates a large quantity of smoke.

drifts of smoke

Focuses on the movement and dispersion of the smoke.

sheets of smoke

Implies a broad, flat expanse of smoke.

veils of smoke

Suggests a covering or obscuring effect of the smoke.

smokescreens

Implies smoke used to conceal or obscure something.

FAQs

How can I use "clouds of smoke" in a sentence?

You can use "clouds of smoke" to describe literal smoke formations, as in "Clouds of smoke rose over the city", or metaphorically to describe something obscuring or confusing.

What are some alternatives to "clouds of smoke"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "billows of smoke", "plumes of smoke", or "smokescreens".

Is it ever incorrect to use "clouds of smoke"?

While grammatically correct, overuse of "clouds of smoke" in metaphorical contexts can make your writing sound clichéd. Consider more original imagery.

What does "clouds of smoke" typically symbolize?

"Clouds of smoke" often symbolize destruction, chaos, or obscurity, but can also represent industrial activity or even theatrical effects.