heavy precipitation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "heavy precipitation" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the amount of rainfall, snow, sleet, or hail in an area. Example sentence: "The forecast calls for heavy precipitation this evening, so be sure to bring an umbrella."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Response teams in western New York, accustomed to harsh winters, were surprised by the unusually early and heavy precipitation.

The Guardian

It is also likely that future hurricanes will become more intense, with higher peak speeds and more heavy precipitation......

The New York Times

Some extreme weather has certainly increased (heat waves for instance, drought in certain areas, and heavy precipitation events).

The Guardian

The climate is hot and moist, with heavy precipitation throughout the year.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The wider western section is deeply eroded by numerous streams fed by heavy precipitation.

Encyclopedia Britannica

With the system came extremely strong winds, heavy precipitation, snowstorms, and cold temperatures.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Heavy precipitation and high mountains account for perennial snow cover at higher elevations and extensive glaciers.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Other factors are heavy precipitation in short periods and an easily erodible source material.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Heavy precipitation Index.

Heritage Science

High temperature extremes and heavy precipitation events are increasing.

TechCrunch

Especially heavy precipitation has increased extremely over recent years.

International Journal of Disaster Risk Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the impact of weather events, use "heavy precipitation" to emphasize the quantity and intensity of rain, snow, or other forms of precipitation. It's a more formal and precise way to describe adverse weather conditions compared to using terms like "heavy rain" alone.

Common error

Don't limit "precipitation" solely to rain. Remember that "heavy precipitation" encompasses all forms of falling moisture, including snow, sleet, and hail. Choose your words precisely to accurately describe the weather event.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "heavy precipitation" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "heavy" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "precipitation". According to Ludwig, this phrase is considered grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

25%

Encyclopedias

20%

Less common in

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "heavy precipitation" is a grammatically correct and frequently used term to describe significant amounts of rainfall, snow, sleet, or hail. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and widespread use across various contexts, including news, science, and encyclopedias. While related phrases like "torrential rainfall" and "excessive rainfall" offer similar meanings, "heavy precipitation" provides a general and widely understood way to convey the intensity of a weather event. To use it effectively, remember that precipitation encompasses all forms of falling moisture, not just rain. By understanding its scope and appropriate contexts, you can use the phrase "heavy precipitation" with confidence and precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

torrential rainfall

Emphasizes the intense, rapid flow of water.

excessive rainfall

Highlights the amount exceeding normal or expected levels.

intense rainfall

Focuses on the strength and severity of the precipitation.

copious rainfall

Stresses the abundance and plentiful nature of the rain.

severe precipitation

Underscores the potential for damage or disruption.

extreme rainfall

Highlights that the rainfall event is beyond the norm and potentially dangerous.

significant precipitation

Focuses on the importance or impact of the rainfall.

abundant rainfall

Similar to copious but less dramatic, emphasizing plentifulness.

substantial rainfall

Highlights the large quantity or amount of rain.

heavy downpour

Describes a short-lived but intense period of heavy rain.

FAQs

What does "heavy precipitation" mean?

"Heavy precipitation" refers to a significant amount of rainfall, snowfall, sleet, or hail occurring in a specific area within a specific timeframe.

How is "heavy precipitation" different from "heavy rain"?

"Heavy rain" specifically refers to a large amount of liquid rainfall. "Heavy precipitation" is a broader term encompassing all forms of intense falling moisture, including snow, sleet, and hail.

What are some synonyms for "heavy precipitation"?

You can use alternatives like "torrential rainfall", "excessive rainfall", or "intense rainfall" depending on the specific context.

How does "heavy precipitation" affect the environment?

"Heavy precipitation" can lead to flooding, mudslides, soil erosion, and contamination of water supplies, impacting both natural ecosystems and human infrastructure.