powerful surge

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "powerful surge" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a strong or intense increase in something, such as energy, emotion, or activity. Example: "The storm caused a powerful surge in the river, leading to flooding in the nearby areas."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

36 human-written examples

But the key analogy was between two discrepancies -- the discrepancy between the rapid proliferation of automobiles and the inadequate roads on the one hand, and this incredibly powerful surge of data creation available with the power of computer processing growing, doubling every 18 months, my God!

Huffington Post

Above all, why has Iraqi time slowed down so soon after its powerful surge forward?

The New York Times

This city is bracing for a powerful surge of water predicted to break records by as much as five feet.

The New York Times

It was an oceanic outpouring of joy that swept us all, young and old, up in its powerful surge.

The New Yorker

But in terms of driving enjoyment, it's no contest: diesels, with their powerful surge of low-end torque, make typical hybrids feel slow and spiritless in comparison.

The New York Times

On the evening of the incident, workers failed to detect a powerful surge of gas that resulted from an equipment failure in the well.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

23 human-written examples

Instead of causing people to flee, however, the potential for powerful surges attracted large crowds of spectators to the shore.

The New York Times

Manoa added two more through powerful surges from the pack, before Mark Jennings finished a slick Sale move.

BBC

But the home side soon demonstrated their attacking strength as powerful surges by Mako Vunipola and Jamie George pressed Exeter back and Ashton sprinted in from distance, with Charlie Hodgson adding the conversion.

BBC

First, Knox dug trenches along the river in southern Wisconsin and found traces of the three recent floods: The powerful surges of water carried and deposited more sand and larger grains than usual, and even ripped up chunks of the muddy river bottom, forming distinctive layers.

Science Magazine

We talk about her working method and how it has changed through the all-powerful surge of digital technology.

The Guardian - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "powerful surge" to describe sudden, impactful increases or movements in both literal and figurative contexts. It effectively conveys a sense of force and momentum.

Common error

Avoid using "powerful surge" when describing minor or insignificant increases. The phrase is most effective when the increase is truly substantial and impactful.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "powerful surge" primarily functions as a noun phrase. It often acts as the subject or object of a sentence, describing a sudden and significant increase or rush of something. Ludwig shows many examples of it describing increases in data, water, or emotions.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

15%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Science

8%

Wiki

5%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "powerful surge" is a versatile and effective way to describe a sudden and impactful increase. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used in various contexts, particularly in news and formal writing. While the phrase is generally neutral in tone, it's important to ensure that it is used appropriately, avoiding overuse in contexts where the increase is not substantial. Consider alternatives such as "significant increase" or "intense upsurge" to fine-tune the specific nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

intense upsurge

Combines intensity with the concept of rising or swelling.

strong upswing

Similar to 'sudden upswing' but emphasizes strength over suddenness.

significant increase

Focuses on the quantitative aspect of the increase.

robust increase

Similar to 'significant increase' but emphasizes the resilience and healthiness of the increase.

rapid intensification

Emphasizes the speed and degree of intensification.

sudden upswing

Emphasizes the abrupt and upward nature of the change.

marked escalation

Highlights the progressive and intensifying nature of the increase.

forceful impetus

Suggests a driving force or momentum behind the increase.

notable acceleration

Focuses on the increasing rate of change.

vigorous expansion

Highlights the robust and energetic nature of the growth.

FAQs

How can I use "powerful surge" in a sentence?

You can use "powerful surge" to describe an abrupt and significant increase in something. For example: "The company experienced a "powerful surge" in sales after the marketing campaign."

What's a more formal alternative to "powerful surge"?

In more formal contexts, consider using alternatives like "significant increase" or "marked escalation", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "powerful surge" suitable for scientific writing?

Yes, "powerful surge" can be used in scientific writing when describing a sudden and substantial increase in a measurable quantity. However, ensure that it's used precisely and avoids hyperbole.

What's the difference between "powerful surge" and "strong increase"?

"Powerful surge" suggests a more sudden and forceful increase compared to "strong increase", which implies a more gradual and sustained growth. The choice depends on the specific context and the desired emphasis.