blizzard
A severe snowstorm characterized by very strong winds and low visibility over an extended period. In a metaphorical sense, it refers to an overwhelming or confusing mass of something that arrives suddenly, such as data or paperwork.
Examples
3 of 5The mountain climbers were forced to seek shelter when the blizzard hit without warning.
The people climbing the mountain had to find a safe place when the heavy snowstorm started suddenly.
Meteorological data suggests that blizzard conditions will persist for at least forty-eight hours.
Weather information indicates that the severe storm conditions will continue for two days.
I'm not going out in that blizzard; I'll just wait for the snow to stop.
I am staying inside because of that huge storm; I will wait until it stops snowing.
Word Family
Memory Tip
Think of a 'bliz' (like a 'blitz' attack) of 'lizards'—imagine a thousand cold, white lizards falling rapidly from the sky.
Quick Quiz
The public relations department had to manage a ______ of media inquiries after the scandal broke.
Correct!
The correct answer is: a
Examples
The mountain climbers were forced to seek shelter when the blizzard hit without warning.
everydayThe people climbing the mountain had to find a safe place when the heavy snowstorm started suddenly.
Meteorological data suggests that blizzard conditions will persist for at least forty-eight hours.
formalWeather information indicates that the severe storm conditions will continue for two days.
I'm not going out in that blizzard; I'll just wait for the snow to stop.
informalI am staying inside because of that huge storm; I will wait until it stops snowing.
The historical analysis focuses on the socio-economic impact of the Great Blizzard of 1888.
academicThe academic study looks at how the massive 1888 snowstorm affected society and the economy.
The company faced a blizzard of criticism from shareholders following the release of the quarterly report.
businessThe business received a massive amount of negative feedback from investors after the report came out.
Word Family
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
a blizzard of activity
a period of intense and hurried work
weather the blizzard
to endure a difficult or overwhelming situation
blizzard of protest
a massive and sudden outcry against a decision
Often Confused With
A snowstorm is a general term, whereas a blizzard must have winds over 35mph and visibility under 1/4 mile.
A whiteout is the visual condition where you can't see anything; a blizzard is the actual storm event.
Usage Notes
While it literally describes a weather event, 'blizzard' is highly effective in professional writing to describe an overwhelming volume of information or tasks.
Common Mistakes
Learners often use 'blizzard' for any light snowfall, but it should be reserved for intense, windy, and dangerous conditions.
Memory Tip
Think of a 'bliz' (like a 'blitz' attack) of 'lizards'—imagine a thousand cold, white lizards falling rapidly from the sky.
Word Origin
The word's origin is uncertain, but it became popular in the United States in the 1870s, possibly derived from 'blaze' or 'blast'.
Grammar Patterns
Cultural Context
In many northern countries, a blizzard often results in 'snow days' where schools and businesses close for safety.
Quick Quiz
The public relations department had to manage a ______ of media inquiries after the scandal broke.
Correct!
The correct answer is: a
Related Vocabulary
Related Words
sit
A1To rest your body on your bottom with your back upright, typically on a chair or the floor. It describes both the action of moving into this position and the state of being in it.
stand
A1To be in an upright position supported by one's feet rather than sitting or lying down. It also refers to the physical location of an object or a person's particular opinion on a subject.
pay
A1To give money to someone in exchange for goods, services, or to settle a debt. It can also mean to give something non-monetary, such as attention or a compliment.
meet
A1To come together with someone at a specific place and time, or to be introduced to someone for the first time. It can also mean to satisfy a requirement, standard, or need.
continue
A1To keep doing something or to stay in the same state without stopping. It can also mean to start an activity again after a short break.
set
A1To put or place something in a specific position or location. It also means to adjust or prepare something so that it is ready for use, such as a clock or a table.
learn
A1To gain knowledge, understanding, or a skill by studying, practicing, or being taught. It refers to the process of acquiring information through experience or education.
lead
A1To go in front of a group of people to show them the way to a place. It also means to be in control of a group, a team, or an activity.
understand
A1To know the meaning of what someone is saying or how something works. It involves grasping an idea, a language, or a situation clearly in your mind.
follow
A1To move behind someone or something in the same direction. It also means to obey rules, instructions, or to understand the logic of an argument or story.
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