tidal wave: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
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Quick answer
What does “tidal wave” mean?
A very large ocean wave caused by an underwater earthquake, volcanic eruption, or similar disturbance, often associated with tsunamis.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A very large ocean wave caused by an underwater earthquake, volcanic eruption, or similar disturbance, often associated with tsunamis.
Metaphorically, a large and sudden increase or surge of something, such as emotions, support, or changes.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning, but metaphorical usage may be slightly more frequent in American English.
Connotations
Both convey overwhelming force or magnitude, with dramatic impact.
Frequency
Comparable in both varieties, often used in news, media, and informal discourse.
Grammar
How to Use “tidal wave” in a Sentence
tidal wave of [noun]tidal wave from [source]tidal wave that [verb]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “tidal wave” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The coastal village has tidal wave defences in place.
American English
- The city's tidal wave preparedness plan was updated recently.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
The startup faced a tidal wave of investment after the product launch.
Academic
Studies on tidal wave propagation help in coastal disaster management.
Everyday
There was a tidal wave of applause when the team won.
Technical
In geophysics, tidal waves are distinguished from wind-generated waves.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “tidal wave”
- Using 'tidal wave' interchangeably with 'tsunami' without considering scientific accuracy.
- Overusing the metaphorical sense in formal writing where precise terms are needed.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
In everyday language, they are often used interchangeably, but scientifically, 'tsunami' refers specifically to seismic sea waves, while 'tidal wave' can be misleading as it is not caused by tides.
Yes, especially in metaphorical contexts, but in technical or scientific papers, 'tsunami' is preferred for clarity.
Examples include 'a tidal wave of innovation', 'tidal wave of customer complaints', or 'tidal wave of market changes'.
Start with the literal meaning using visuals, then introduce metaphorical uses with common collocations and context examples, highlighting differences from similar terms like 'wave' or 'surge'.
A very large ocean wave caused by an underwater earthquake, volcanic eruption, or similar disturbance, often associated with tsunamis.
Tidal wave: in British English it is pronounced /ˈtaɪdəl weɪv/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈtaɪdəl weɪv/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “ride the tidal wave”
- “caught in a tidal wave”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'tidal' from tide, and 'wave' – together, a massive wave like those from tides or sudden surges.
Conceptual Metaphor
A LARGE AMOUNT OR FORCE IS A TIDAL WAVE
Practice
Quiz
What is the most common metaphorical use of 'tidal wave'?