storm of dust

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "storm of dust" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where a large amount of dust is being stirred up, often in a chaotic or overwhelming manner. Example: "As the construction crew began their work, a storm of dust enveloped the entire site, making it difficult to see."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

Raising a storm of dust and sand, it plunged the streets into semi-darkness, driving roaming goats crazy.

The Guardian

At seven-twenty, the engines of the sixty helicopters started simultaneously, with a thunderous roar and a storm of dust.

The New Yorker

Occasionally they even have to stand their ground while some snorting base runner prepares to plow them over in a storm of dust, sweat and spikes.

The New York Times - Sports

During a lull just before dusk, a convoy of trucks and other vehicles carrying people fleeing threw up a storm of dust as they raced toward the mountains.

The New York Times

Yelling blood-chilling cries, the Afghan horsemen of the Northern Alliance raced through a gully, raising a storm of dust, firing their Kalashnikovs towards the enemy.

The Guardian

He and his aides had to scramble out of the building and through the storm of dust and debris to safety.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

The stupefying image of the towers collapsing in those storms of dust; it was a vision of horror that I will never forget.

The New Yorker

Some of the principal challenges include dealing with cosmic rays in space, surface radiation on Mars, storms of dust or "fines" (particles that are smaller than dust), the effects of weightlessness and human factors including psychological issues.

BBC

In addition inter-planetary astronauts are going to have to deal with things like cosmic rays, Mars surface radiation and storms of dust or 'fines' - particles that are smaller than dust particles.

BBC

Couples and a few larger groups sat beneath storms of dust motes swirling in the overhead lights.

Huffington Post

A storm of yellow dust darkens the skies above Beijing, an increasingly familiar phenomenon blamed on the disappearance of Asian forests.

The New York Times - Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "storm of dust" to vividly describe a situation where dust is heavily stirred up, impacting visibility or creating a chaotic environment. This phrase is particularly effective in narrative writing to create a strong sense of place and atmosphere.

Common error

While evocative, "storm of dust" may be too informal for certain academic or technical contexts. Consider using more precise language like "airborne particulate matter" or "dust suspension" in such settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "storm of dust" primarily functions as a noun phrase, acting as a subject, object, or complement within a sentence. As Ludwig AI confirms, this usage is grammatically sound. It evokes an image of a turbulent and overwhelming amount of dust.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

66.66%

Science

22.22%

Academia

11.11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "storm of dust" is a grammatically correct and evocative way to describe a situation where a significant amount of dust is stirred up, often creating a chaotic or overwhelming effect. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is usable in written English. Primarily found in News & Media, Science and Academia, the phrase serves to paint a vivid picture for the reader. While effective in narrative and descriptive contexts, "storm of dust" may be too informal for highly technical or scientific writing. Alternatives like "airborne particulate matter" may be more suitable in those instances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

dust cloud

Focuses on the visual aspect of a mass of dust.

sandstorm

Specifies that the storm consists of sand rather than just dust.

dust flurry

Implies a brief and light burst of dust.

dust devil

Refers to a rotating column of dust and air.

airborne dust

Describes dust that is suspended in the air.

dust haze

Suggests a thin layer of dust reducing visibility.

dust plume

Implies a stream or trail of dust.

dust cloud eruption

Emphasizes the sudden and forceful release of a cloud of dust.

gust of dust

Depicts a sudden burst of dust carried by the wind.

sheet of dust

Suggests a broad, flat expanse of dust moving across a surface.

FAQs

How can I use "storm of dust" in a sentence?

You can use "storm of dust" to describe a visually impactful event where a large quantity of dust is stirred up. For example: "The old building collapsed in a "storm of dust"."

What's a more formal way to say "storm of dust"?

Depending on the context, alternatives include "airborne particulate matter", "dust suspension", or "fugitive dust emissions". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is there a difference between a "storm of dust" and a "cloud of dust"?

While similar, "storm of dust" implies a more turbulent and intense event, while a "cloud of dust" simply describes a visible mass of dust.

When is it appropriate to use "storm of dust" in writing?

It's suitable for descriptive writing, narratives, and less formal contexts where a vivid image is desired. Avoid using it in highly technical or scientific reports where precision is paramount.