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Glite Dictionary
strong gale

strong gale

1 6.2
A very strong wind that can topple trees and damage buildings
  • noun
  • Specialized
: viento fuerte
  • It is surprising how few strong gales have occurred this year.

Examples

  • The meteorologist predicted that a strong gale would hit the coast later today, causing potential damage.

  • "It would have done the job fine, except for that extra strong gale.

    Fiction book (2001)

  • Sailing during a strong gale can be dangerous, so many fishermen stayed in the harbor.

  • After the strong gale passed, branches and debris were scattered all over the streets.

Synonyms

high wind
vsstrong gale
36 1.6

A very strong wind that can blow down trees and cause damage

is the precise measured class limited to 47 to 54 knots
strong wind
vsstrong gale
34 1.0

A wind that blows very hard and can move things

is a specific numeric category defined for 47 to 54 knots
gale
vsstrong gale
21 5.8

A very strong wind that can blow down trees

is the narrower category defined as wind between 47 and 54 knots (Beaufort 9)

Antonyms

calm
680 1.0

Not showing strong feelings and being very still

light breeze
4 1.5

A gentle wind you feel on your face that moves leaves

How Windy

storm
∞ 1.0
strong gale
  • Specialized
1 6.2
gale
21 5.8
near gale
  • Specialized
1 7.7

Surface Forms

strong gale singular
strong gales plural

Morphology

strong + gale

The meaning is directly derivable from 'strong' (intensifier) + 'gale' (a strong wind): together they indicate a very strong wind. While the precise Beaufort-scale range is technical, a B1 learner who knows both words will understand the phrase as referring to particularly strong wind.

Etymology

Strong gale is a weather phrase: gale means a very strong wind and strong makes it even more powerful, so picture trees bending and waves hitting the shore. That's why strong gale means 'a very strong, often dangerous wind'.