crack of thunder

USAGE SUMMARY

"crack of thunder" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to describe the sound of thunder during a thunderstorm and is often used in literary writing to create a sense of tension. For example, "The sky lit up with an electric blue light, then the crack of thunder jolted them out of their reverie."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

An almighty crack of thunder snaps me awake at four in the morning.

The Guardian - Travel

Another flash of lightning and another crack of thunder like the roar of a hungry tiger.

The New York Times

Outside, there was a crack of thunder, and it started to pour.

The New Yorker

PARK CITY, Utah — It was the independent film equivalent of a crack of thunder.

The New York Times

Suddenly, the strangulated squeal of an electric guitar shakes the building, like a crack of thunder.

The Guardian

If it's close, we're treated to the sharp crack of thunder that makes us jump and the dog hide.

Harvard University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

Here there is a blinding obviousness about the cracks of thunder that accompany Claudius's misdeeds.

The Guardian

Our Land Rover aquaplanes, chased by bolts of lightning, as cracks of thunder fall like boulders around us.

Independent

It is rainy season in Jakarta, and the gray skies and occasional cracks of thunder speak to the national mood.

The New York Times

Cracks of thunder cannoned off the granite flanks like some satanic timpani tattoo, but Guy didn't bat a false eyelash.

The Guardian - Travel

I'd missed the first cracks of thunder, having been holed up on a hen weekend, groggily unaware that Weekend magazine had run a 3,500-word 3,500-wordking ifeatureorth-easkings the "next Detroif".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "crack of thunder" to create vivid imagery and emphasize sudden, impactful events in your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "cracks of thunder" when referring to a single instance of thunder; "crack of thunder" is generally used for a singular event, while "rolls of thunder" or "peals of thunder" might be more appropriate for multiple or continuous sounds.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "crack of thunder" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a specific auditory phenomenon, the sharp, sudden sound associated with lightning discharges. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage and frequent appearance in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

88%

Academia

8%

Science

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "crack of thunder" is a common and vivid noun phrase used to describe the sharp, sudden sound of thunder, as validated by Ludwig AI. Predominantly found in News & Media, it effectively creates imagery and enhances tension in writing. While grammatically correct and widely accepted, remember to use it to refer to a single instance. For multiple sounds, consider alternatives like "peals of thunder". Overall, "crack of thunder" is a powerful descriptive tool readily available for effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

peal of thunder

Replaces "crack" with "peal", emphasizing a loud, resonant sound.

clap of thunder

Substitutes "crack" with "clap", focusing on a sudden, sharp noise.

boom of thunder

Uses "boom" instead of "crack", highlighting a deep, resonant sound.

roar of thunder

Replaces "crack" with "roar", suggesting a prolonged, loud rumble.

crash of thunder

Substitutes "crack" with "crash", emphasizing a violent, shattering sound.

rumble of thunder

Focuses on the low, continuous sound of thunder.

thunderclap

A single word synonymous with a loud burst of thunder.

loud thunder

A simple, direct description of thunder's volume.

deafening thunder

Emphasizes the overwhelming loudness of thunder.

splitting thunder

Implies a sharp, impactful sound of thunder.

FAQs

How can I use "crack of thunder" in a sentence?

You can use "crack of thunder" to describe a sudden, loud sound during a storm. For example, "The "crack of thunder" shook the house".

What's the difference between "crack of thunder" and "clap of thunder"?

"Crack of thunder" emphasizes a sharp, instantaneous sound, while "clap of thunder" suggests a more resounding, hand-like sound.

What are some alternatives to "crack of thunder"?

Alternatives include "peal of thunder", "boom of thunder", or "roar of thunder", depending on the specific sound you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "cracks of thunder"?

While "crack of thunder" refers to a single, distinct event, "cracks of thunder" can be used to describe multiple, separate instances of thunder occurring during a storm. However, using a collective noun like "peals of thunder" or "rolls of thunder" might be more appropriate when referring to continuous or multiple sounds.