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Glite Dictionary
strong gale

strong gale

6.2
A very strong wind that can topple trees and damage buildings
  • noun
  • Specialized
translation icon : 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
29 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
gale
vsstrong gale
24 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)
strong wind
vsstrong gale
23 1.0

A wind that blows very hard and can move things

is a specific numeric category defined for 47 to 54 knots

Antonyms

calm
735 1.0

Not showing strong feelings and being very still

light breeze
3 1.5

A gentle wind you feel on your face that moves leaves

How Windy

storm
∞ 1.0
strong gale
  • Specialized
6.2
gale
24 5.8
near gale
  • Specialized
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'.