dim clouds

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "dim clouds" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe clouds that are not bright or are somewhat obscured, often implying a gloomy or overcast sky. Example: "As the storm approached, the sky was filled with dim clouds, casting a shadow over the landscape."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

The light from distant quasars lets astronomers study the dim clouds of gas and dust in the early universe before they coalesced into galaxies like the Milky Way, said Dr. Esther M. Hu, an astronomer at the University of Hawaii who is not a member of the Sloan survey.

The New York Times

WACCM-PMC model studies show that relatively dim clouds should have different trends than the brighter clouds.

Progress in Earth and Planetary Science

A study of PMCs with the whole atmosphere community climate model (WACCM) has shown that relatively dim clouds should have different trends than the brighter clouds.

Progress in Earth and Planetary Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

High wisps of cirrus clouds dim the stars in El Nino years, which brings reduced rainfall to that part of the Andes.

The New York Times

That is, how its pacemaker cells try to synchronize in the presence of different light cues (like sunshine, artificial light or dim light from clouds) when arriving at various time zones three hours, six hours, nine hours and 12 hours away either to the east or west.

The New York Times - Science

The sky was dimming from gathering clouds and a retreating sun as we walked a muddy road to Espadilla Beach, a public beach.

The New York Times - Travel

The morning had begun grey and dim but now the clouds momentarily receded before a brilliant winter sun.

The Economist

At irregular intervals the lights would suddenly dim, as if a cloud were moving across the sun.

The New York Times - Arts

After dark the only light came from fires near the shoreline, though it was dimmed by a cloud of dust.

The Economist

Most of the scenes are filmed outdoors, where clouds pass overhead, dimming the picture.

The New York Times

The long gravel beach was as gray as the clouds overhead, which dimmed and brightened minute by minute.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "dim clouds" to set a specific atmospheric mood in creative writing, such as foreshadowing or reflecting a character's internal state. This phrase evokes a sense of gloom or mystery.

Common error

Avoid using "dim" interchangeably with "dark" when describing clouds. "Dim" suggests a reduction in light or brightness, while "dark" implies a complete or near-complete absence of light. Choose "dim clouds" when clouds partially obscure light, not when they create total darkness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "dim clouds" primarily functions as a descriptive noun phrase. It combines the adjective "dim", which modifies the noun "clouds", to characterize the clouds based on their brightness or luminosity. Ludwig confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "dim clouds" is a grammatically sound and understandable way to describe clouds that appear less bright or somewhat obscured. Ludwig AI validates its usability in various contexts. Its use effectively paints a picture of an overcast or gloomy sky and is most commonly found in news and media, as well as scientific writing. When using "dim clouds", ensure you are indicating reduced brightness rather than complete darkness and not replacing it with "dark clouds", which have a different semantic implication. Consider other phrases such as "overcast sky" or "gloomy sky" to add greater detail in certain contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

overcast sky

Focuses on the general condition of the sky being covered and darkened by clouds.

cloudy weather

Emphasizes the presence of clouds in the weather, causing reduced sunlight.

gloomy sky

Highlights the somber or melancholic appearance of the sky due to cloud cover.

darkened clouds

Indicates clouds that have become darker, possibly due to an approaching storm.

shadowed clouds

Suggests that the clouds are casting shadows, reducing the overall brightness.

obscured clouds

Implies that the clouds are blocking or partially hiding the sun or sky.

murky sky

Describes the sky as being dark, dull, and heavy with clouds.

dreary sky

Focuses on the cheerless and uninviting appearance of the sky.

dusky clouds

Indicates clouds that are taking on a darker, muted color, often around twilight.

hazy clouds

Highlights the clouds being veiled by haze, causing them to appear less distinct.

FAQs

What does "dim clouds" mean?

"Dim clouds" refers to clouds that are not very bright or are somewhat obscured, often implying a gloomy or overcast sky. It suggests a reduction in light rather than complete darkness.

How can I use "dim clouds" in a sentence?

You can use "dim clouds" to describe a weather condition, like in the sentence, "As the storm approached, the sky filled with "dim clouds", casting a shadow over the landscape."

What are some alternatives to "dim clouds"?

Alternatives to "dim clouds" include "overcast sky", "cloudy weather", or "gloomy sky", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "dim clouds"?

Yes, "dim clouds" is a correct and usable phrase in English. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's used to describe the subdued lighting conditions created by cloud cover.