like a hurricane

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "like a hurricane" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it to express that something is happening or moving quickly, or powerfully. For example, "He approached the situation like a hurricane, full of energy and enthusiasm."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

I remember it had some line like, "Blitz takes the stage like a hurricane".

Vice

There was like, a hurricane, and stuff?

Huffington Post

It came like a hurricane.

The New York Times

Like a Hurricane.

The Guardian - Music

It's more like a hurricane.

The Washington Post

They're like a hurricane or an earthquake.

The Guardian

"It's like a hurricane warning flag.

The New York Times

"Kind of like a hurricane in the air," he said.

The New York Times - Sports

"I feel like a hurricane victim or something," he said.

The New York Times

Marjane Satrapi gusts into the room like a hurricane.

The Guardian - Film

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

A natural disaster involves a physical phenomenon like a hurricane or an earthquake.

Columbia University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "like a hurricane" to vividly describe situations characterized by sudden, overwhelming force or chaos. For example, "The news spread through the office like a hurricane."

Common error

Avoid using "like a hurricane" in contexts that require nuanced descriptions of gentler or more subtle actions. Ensure the comparison is apt and enhances the imagery rather than exaggerating it.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "like a hurricane" functions as a simile, comparing something to the intense force and chaos of a hurricane. Ludwig AI indicates its prevalent use in descriptive contexts, emphasizing a sudden and overwhelming impact.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

95%

Science

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Academia

1%

Wiki

0.5%

Reference

0.5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "like a hurricane" is a powerful simile used to describe something sudden, intense, and chaotic. Ludwig AI confirms its wide usage, especially in News & Media, where it paints a vivid picture of disruptive forces. While grammatically correct and versatile, be mindful of overuse or misapplication in contexts that demand subtlety. Alternatives like "like a whirlwind" or "with the force of a hurricane" offer variations for diverse expressive needs. The phrase’s prevalence underscores its effectiveness in conveying overwhelming impact and dramatic shifts. Understanding its register and purpose ensures precise communication, amplifying descriptive writing with controlled vigor.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

with the force of a hurricane

Explicitly states the level of force or intensity, directly comparable to a "hurricane's" power.

with hurricane-force winds

Specifically refers to the wind speeds and destructive capabilities associated with a "hurricane".

like a whirlwind

Emphasizes the rapid and chaotic movement or effect, similar to a "hurricane", but often on a smaller scale.

like a storm

Focuses on the turbulent and disruptive nature of the event, comparable to a "hurricane's" impact.

like a tempest

Highlights the intensity and violence of the situation, akin to the ferocity of a "hurricane".

like a tsunami

Draws a parallel to the overwhelming and destructive force, representing the massive impact similar to a "hurricane".

like a tidal wave

Stresses the immense and overwhelming power, much like the destructive potential of a "hurricane".

like a raging fire

Highlights the uncontrolled and devastating spread or intensity, akin to the widespread damage caused by a "hurricane".

like an earthquake

Emphasizes the disruptive and transformative impact, similar to the lasting changes brought about by a "hurricane".

like a volcanic eruption

Focuses on the sudden and forceful release of energy or impact, comparable to the explosive nature of a "hurricane".

FAQs

How can I use "like a hurricane" in a sentence?

You can use "like a hurricane" to describe something that is sudden, powerful, and chaotic. For instance, "She burst into the room "like a hurricane", demanding answers immediately."

What are some alternatives to "like a hurricane"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "like a whirlwind", "like a storm", or "with the force of a hurricane".

Is it appropriate to use "like a hurricane" in formal writing?

While "like a hurricane" is vivid and descriptive, it might be too informal for some academic or professional contexts. Consider the tone and audience before using it, and opt for more precise language if necessary.

What does it mean when something is described as "like a hurricane"?

Describing something as "like a hurricane" implies that it possesses immense power, speed, and a capacity for widespread destruction or disruption. It suggests a situation that is out of control and potentially devastating.