strong gale: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowTechnical / Formal / Literary
Quick answer
What does “strong gale” mean?
A very powerful and violent wind, specifically one measuring 9 on the Beaufort wind force scale.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A very powerful and violent wind, specifically one measuring 9 on the Beaufort wind force scale.
A term used in meteorology for sustained surface winds of 41-47 knots (47-54 mph, 76-87 km/h). By extension, it can metaphorically describe any powerful, unstoppable force or a tumultuous situation.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning. The term is used identically in both meteorology and general language. The Beaufort scale is the international standard.
Connotations
Both variants carry the same connotations of danger and powerful natural force. In the UK, with its maritime history, the term may be slightly more familiar in general discourse.
Frequency
Equally low frequency in both dialects. More common in regions frequently experiencing such weather (e.g., coastal UK, Northeastern US).
Grammar
How to Use “strong gale” in a Sentence
A strong gale + verb (blew, battered, raged)We had/experienced/saw a strong galewarnings/forecasts of a strong galecaught in a strong galeVocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used in logistics, shipping, and insurance contexts to explain delays or damage (e.g., 'Shipments are delayed due to strong gales in the Channel').
Academic
Primarily in meteorology, geography, and environmental science papers discussing wind force measurement and storm impacts.
Everyday
Used in weather reports and general descriptions of very stormy conditions (e.g., 'They've issued a warning for strong gales tomorrow').
Technical
The precise term from the Beaufort scale (Force 9). Used in marine forecasts, aviation weather reports, and meteorological data.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “strong gale”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “strong gale”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “strong gale”
- Using 'strong gale' to describe a tropical cyclone or hurricane (incorrect; those are more severe).
- Incorrect pluralisation: 'strong gales' is correct for multiple events, not 'strong gale' for a single event.
- Misspelling as 'strong gail'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, not technically. On the Beaufort scale, a 'strong gale' is Force 9. A 'storm' is Force 10 (48-55 knots) and is more severe.
Yes, but it's more formal and precise. In casual talk, people might simply say 'a terrible wind' or 'a huge storm'. 'Strong gale' is common in weather forecasts.
It can cause minor structural damage (loose tiles, fencing), break twigs and small branches off trees, and make walking or driving high-sided vehicles very difficult. At sea, it creates high waves with crests beginning to topple.
A 'gale' is the general term for Force 8 (34-40 knots). A 'strong gale' is specifically Force 9 (41-47 knots), which is more powerful.
A very powerful and violent wind, specifically one measuring 9 on the Beaufort wind force scale.
Strong gale is usually technical / formal / literary in register.
Strong gale: in British English it is pronounced /ˌstrɒŋ ˈɡeɪl/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌstrɔːŋ ˈɡeɪl/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[Not idiomatic as a phrase, but appears in expressions like] 'to blow a strong gale'”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a STRONG GUY lifting heavy weights in a GALE of wind – the combined image reinforces power and forceful wind.
Conceptual Metaphor
A STRONG GALE IS AN AGGRESSIVE ADVERSARY (battering, raging, lashing). A STRONG GALE IS A POWERFUL FORCE OF CHANGE (sweeping through, clearing the air).
Practice
Quiz
On the Beaufort scale, a 'strong gale' is defined as: