widespread flooding

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "widespread flooding" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where flooding occurs over a large area, affecting many locations or communities. Example: "The recent storms have caused widespread flooding, leading to significant damage in several towns."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Widespread flooding.

The New York Times

The widespread flooding has affected many rivers, including the Irrawaddy (Ayeyarwady).

The Guardian

In July/August last year, widespread flooding hit the Soroti district during the dry season.

The Guardian

Perhaps the appalling weather and widespread flooding had something to do with it.

The Guardian

Further to the east in Washington Parish, swollen rivers and creeks led to widespread flooding.

The Guardian

That winter was one of California's wettest on record, with widespread flooding and frequent mudslides.

The New York Times - Science

For emergency officials a primary concern was the anticipated widespread flooding.

The Guardian

In Maplecrest, a hamlet of Windham, N.Y., the storm caused widespread flooding from the Batavia Kill.

The New York Times

Widespread flooding was also reported in oceanfront areas like Cape May, Wildwood and Long Beach Island.

The New York Times

"Widespread flooding of vulnerable shore roads and/or basements will hamper recovery efforts".

The New York Times

Key West's last brush with a hurricane was Wilma in 2005, which caused widespread flooding.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the impacts of heavy rainfall, specify the affected areas after using the phrase "widespread flooding" to provide context for readers.

Common error

Instead of vaguely stating "widespread flooding occurred", specify the affected regions or the extent of the damage to provide a clearer picture of the situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "widespread flooding" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "widespread" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "flooding". It is often used as the subject or object of a sentence to describe an event's impact, as evidenced by Ludwig and its many examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Wiki

22%

Encyclopedias

2%

Less common in

Science

4%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "widespread flooding" is a common and grammatically correct term used to describe extensive flooding events. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability, and examples from diverse sources such as news media, encyclopedias, and wikis highlight its frequent use in describing natural disasters and their impacts. While the phrase is generally neutral, its register can vary depending on the source. Remember to provide specific details about the affected areas to enhance clarity and avoid ambiguity in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

extensive flooding

Another term with similar meaning; "extensive" denotes the large area affected.

broad-scale flooding

Similar in meaning, but emphasizes the breadth of the affected area.

extensive inundation

Emphasizes the broad reach and depth of the flooding.

large-scale flooding

Focuses on the extent and size of the flooded area.

large-scale inundation

Focuses on the scale of the flooding event.

far-reaching floods

Highlights the extensive impact and geographical distribution of the floods.

massive deluge

Highlights the intensity and suddenness of the flooding.

severe inundation

Emphasizes the damaging and impactful nature of the flooding.

major flooding

Indicates a significant or serious flooding event.

general inundation

Indicates a widespread state of being covered in water.

FAQs

How can I use "widespread flooding" in a sentence?

You can use "widespread flooding" to describe a situation where flooding occurs over a large area. For example, "The hurricane caused "widespread flooding" along the coast".

What are some alternatives to "widespread flooding"?

Some alternatives include "extensive flooding", "broad-scale flooding", or "large-scale inundation".

Which is more appropriate: "widespread flooding" or "localized flooding"?

The choice depends on the context. "Widespread flooding" indicates that the flooding affects a large area, while "localized flooding" suggests it is confined to specific, smaller areas.

What are the typical causes of "widespread flooding"?

Widespread flooding can be caused by heavy rainfall, hurricanes, overflowing rivers, or inadequate drainage systems. Each can lead to "widespread flooding" in vulnerable areas.