describe weather essay

101 Words To Describe Weather

Writers know that using the weather in their descriptions is a great way to make stories more relatable. Use this comprehensive list of words that describe weather when you write.

Writers Write is a resource for writers and we have written about words that describe taste , smell , sound , and touch in previous posts. (We even have one for words that describe colours .) In this post, I have included words that describe weather.

Weather is a wonderful tool for writers. We can use it to foreshadow , create a mood , complicate a plot , show a character , and increase or decrease the pace of a story. We can even use it as a motif .

A setting without the weather is like a character without a wardrobe.

Remember that we need to describe weather through our characters’ interactions with their environments. We should not describe it like a weather report. You could show how cold it is by the clothes they choose to wear or mention the weather in dialogue.

Whatever you do, don’t leave it out. There are unintended consequences to a lack of setting , including a static character, a lack of atmosphere, an inability for the reader to relate to the place and time in the story, and a lack of details.

What Is Weather?

According to Oxford it is ‘the state of the atmosphere at a particular place and time as regards heat, cloudiness, dryness, sunshine, wind, rain, etc.’

Words To Describe Weather

General words describing weather.

climate – the type of weather that a country or region has
climate change – changes in the earth’s weather, including changes in temperature, wind patterns and rainfall, especially the increase in the temperature of the earth’s atmosphere that is caused by the increase of particular gases, especially carbon dioxide
meteorology – the scientific study of weather
seasonal – suitable or typical of the time of year it is now
spell – a period when there is a particular type of weather
weather forecast – a report on likely weather conditions for a period of time in the future
zone – one of the large areas that the world is divided into according to its temperature

Words Describing Warm Weather

balmy – warm and pleasant
blistering – extremely hot in a way that is uncomfortable
dog days – the hottest days of the year
heatwave – a continuous period of very hot weather, especially when this is unusual
Indian summer – a period of warm weather in autumn
scorcher – an extremely hot day
sunny – not stormy or cloudy
thaw – ice and snow turns into water
the heat – very hot weather
tropical – like weather near the equator, climate that is frost-free

Words Describing Cold Weather

bleak – very cold and grey
biting – so cold that it makes you feel uncomfortable
brisk – fairly cold and a fairly strong wind is blowing
crisp – cold and dry
fresh – fairly cold and the wind is blowing
frosty – cold enough to produce frost
hard – a very cold winter
harsh – extremely cold and unpleasant
icy – very cold, like ice
raw – cold and unpleasant
snowy – covered with snow

Words Describing Pleasant Weather

calm – very little wind
clear – no clouds, rain, etc.
clement – pleasant because it is neither very hot nor very cold
cloudless – no clouds in the sky
equable – does not change very much
fair – pleasant and not raining
fine – sunny and not raining
pleasant – dry and neither very hot nor very cold
still – without wind
temperate – a temperate climate or region is never extremely hot or extremely cold
windless – without any wind

Words To Describe Unpleasant Weather

bone-dry – completely without water or moisture
fierce – very strong or severe
foul – unpleasant, with rain, snow, or wind
gale-force – an extremely strong wind
gusty – the wind blowing in gusts
humid – hot and wet in a way that makes you feel uncomfortable
muggy – warm in an unpleasant way because the air feels wet
murky – dark and unpleasant because of fog, clouds, etc.
severe – extremely unpleasant and likely to cause harm or damage
sultry – the air is hot and slightly wet
threatening – clouds, skies, or seas show that the weather is likely to be bad
torrential – rain falling in large amounts
unseasonable – not the type of weather that you expect in a particular season
windy – with a lot of wind

Words To Describe Wet & Cloudy Weather

bank – a large mass of cloud or fog
billow – a cloud that rises and moves in a large mass
blizzard – a snowstorm with very strong winds
cirrocumulus – small round clouds that form lines high in the sky
cirrostratus – a thin layer of cloud found very high in the sky
cirrus – a type of thin cloud found very high in the sky
cloudy – full of clouds
column – something that rises up into the air in a straight line
cumulonimbus – a mass of very tall thick cloud that usually brings rain and sometimes thunder
cumulus – a large low white cloud that is round at the top and flat at the bottom
dull – when there are a lot of clouds and it is rather dark
fog – a thick cloud that forms close to the ground or to water and is difficult to see through (fog is thicker than mist)
fogbound – not able to operate normally because of thick fog
foggy – full of fog or covered with fog
gather – if clouds gather, they start to appear and cover part of the sky
grey – when it is not very bright, because there is a lot of cloud
hurricane – a violent storm with very strong winds
inclement – unpleasantly cold or wet
lower – if clouds lower, they are very dark, as if a storm is coming
mist – small drops of liquid in the air
misty – lots of mist in the air
nimbus – a dark grey rain cloud
overcast – a sky completely full of clouds
pall – cloud that covers an area and makes it darker
pea souper – thick low cloud that prevents you from seeing anything
scud – clouds moving quickly
sea mist – a thin low cloud that comes onto the land from the sea
steam- the wet substance that forms on windows and mirrors when wet air suddenly becomes hot or cold
storm cloud – a very dark cloud
squall – a sudden violent gust of wind or localized storm, especially one bringing rain, snow, or sleet.
thundercloud – a storm cloud producing thunder
tsunami – an extremely large wave in the sea
typhoon – a violent tropical storm with very strong winds
vapour – very small drops of water or other liquids in the air that make the air feel wet
vog – smog that contains dust and gas from volcanoes

Words To Describe Changes In Weather

break – if the weather breaks, it changes unexpectedly, and usually becomes worse
break through – if the sun breaks through the clouds, it appears from behind them
brighten up – if the weather brightens up, it becomes sunnier
clear up – if the weather clears up, the clouds or rain go away
close in – if the weather closes in, it becomes unpleasant
cloud – to become darker because grey clouds are forming in the sky
ease – if bad weather such as wind or rain eases, it becomes less strong
fickle – weather that is fickle changes often and unexpectedly
lift – if something such as cloud or fog lifts, the weather improves and you can see clearly again
melt away – if ice or snow melts away, it changes into water as it gets warmer
thaw – if the weather thaws, it becomes warmer and causes ice or snow to change into liquid
track – if weather tracks in a particular direction, it moves in that direction

The Last Word

I hope these words that describe weather help you with your writing.

If you’re looking for help with describing setting, buy our Setting Up The Setting Workbook .

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And nowadays there’s also Pyrocumulonimbus.

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BRYN DONOVAN

tell your stories, love your life

Writing Inspiration
Semi-Charmed Life
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Works In Progress.

Master List for Describing Weather

A lot of writers struggle with describing settings. I’ve written before about how to describe settings and why it matters , but a few people have told me they’d like me to do some of my master lists for writers to help them out!

I have a weird love for creating lists like this, so I’m happy to do it. “How to describe weather” seemed like a good place to start. This way, you won’t get stuck trying to figure out how to describe nice weather, or thinking up ways to describe rain. Hopefully, this will make your writing go faster.

I always include simple as well as more creative ways to describe or write about weather. Sometimes, the simple word is the one you want! I included dryness and humidity in a few of the categories because it felt weird for them to get their own.

As always, this is not a comprehensive list, and I might add to it. My list will probably make you think of other possibilities, too. Bookmark or pin it for future writing reference!

HOT WEATHER

blazing sunshine

glaring sun

baking in the sun

sun-drenched

scorching heat

extravagant heat

relentless sun

like a suana

dense tropical heat

radiating heat

blistering heat

oppressive heat

insufferable heat

suffocating heat

heat pressing down

searing sun

shimmering heat

like an oven

like a furnace

WARM / PLEASANT WEATHER

(“Pleasant” is a matter of opinion, of course.)

a beautiful day

a clear day

a temperate day

a golden day

a glorious day

heavenly weather

bright and sunny

a gorgeous spring day

a dazzling summer day

a brilliant autumn day

a vivid blue sky

a cloudless sky

fluffy white clouds

gentle sunshine

lazy sunshine

kind sunshine

filtered sunlight

dappled sunlight

welcome warmth

one of those rare, perfect days

the kind of day that made people forget to worry

the kind of day that lifted people’s moods

COOL WEATHER

refreshing air

stimulating cool air

invigorating cool air

bracing cool air

a nip in the air

a brisk day

a chilly day

weak sunshine

GRAY / OVERCAST WEATHER

(Most people don’t like gray days, so most of these descriptions are negative. I love them, so I had to add a few positive descriptions.)

colorless sky

a soft gray sky

a dove-gray sky

a gray day made for books and tea

steel-gray sky

granite sky

cement-gray sky

threatening clouds

foreboding clouds

COLD WEATHER

glacial air

bitter cold

brutal cold

bone-chilling cold

penetrating cold

devastating cold

numbing cold

punishing cold

dangerous cold

unforgiving cold

too cold to talk

so cold it burned one’s lungs

so cold it took one’s breath away

like a blast from a hair dryer

a gust of wind

insistent winds

heavy winds

strong winds

cutting wind

whipping winds

biting wind

wintry squall

violent gale

howling wind

shifting winds

restless wind

fresh breeze

soft breeze

balmy breeze

perfumed breeze

slight breeze

hint of a breeze

stirring breeze

wind rustling through the trees

fine drizzle

gray drizzle

pebbles of falling rain

spitting rain

stinging rain

steady rain

rain falling in torrents

cascades of rain

rain beating down

shower of rain

sheets of rain

hard-driving rain

pelting rain

lashing rain

slashing rain

THUNDER AND LIGHTNING

rumbling in the distance

a roll of distant thunder

crash of thunder

crackle of thunder

crack of thunder

clap of thunder

bang of thunder

booming thunder

rattled with thunder

earth-shaking thunder

tempestuous

a furious storm

flash of lightning

streaks of lightning

SNOW AND ICE

flurries of snow

dancing flakes

snowflakes floating down

snowflakes wafting down

swirling snow

falling thick and fast

big flakes falling like petals

blinding snowstorm

raging blizzard

sparkling expanses

blankets of white

caked with snow

boulders of snow

branches coated in ice

glittering ice

crystallized by frost

silvered with frost

clouds of mist

swirling mist

billowing fog

cloaked in mist

cocooned in fog

shrouded in fog

enveloped by fog

smothered by fog

made mysterious by fog

the fog rolled in

the fog was burning off

the fog was lifting

the fog was clearing

the fog was dissipating

I have many lists like this in my book Master Lists for Writers: Thesauruses, Plots, Character Traits, Names, and More . Check it out!

Master Lists for Writers by Bryn Donovan

Do you describe weather conditions in your writing? Do you have a favorite example of a weather description? Let me know in the comments! Thanks for reading, and happy writing!

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How To Describe Settings – and Why It Matters #how to write more descriptively #how to describe scenery in writing #how to make a novel longer

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160+ Ways to Describe Weather

I keep a collection of descriptions that have pulled me into the books I read. I’m fascinated how authors can–in just a few words–put me in the middle of their story and make me want to stay there. This one’s 160+ Ways to Describe Weather.

A note: These are for inspiration only . They can’t be copied because they’ve been pulled directly from an author’s copyrighted manuscript (intellectual property is immediately copyrighted when published).

Evening shadows deepened into blue and purple.
The shadows retreated.
Sun was sinking toward the horizon, the pitiless white ball now an angry orange.
Fading afternoon in early June
Evening sky had turned to molten brass.
Sun still cast a faint yellow light through Slowly gathering evening.
Daylight had begun to drain away.
one-quarter of a moonlit night
silver-white moon hung
A half-moon rests in the fronds over our heads.
watching the horizon drain of color
The shadows slipped up the rocks as though the world were drowning in darkness.
deepening shadows made it a city of ghosts
barely visible in the fading light
the high heavens
Darkness settled around him.
The shadows slipped up the rocks.
Evening was crisp already, the last of sunset just a fading pale stripe in the western sky.
darkening river
the moon golden at dawn, turn purple just before sunset in the rainy season, sometimes has white and black stripes created by volcanic ash, calm and clear sometimes attended by only a single cloud
humpback shapes of conical hills
The last rays of sun skimmed the surface.
late afternoon sun
velvety darkness
night shattered like a mirror
the Southern Cross lying on its side, the green meadow bathed in the humid light of the sinking sun
The corners have just about disappeared into the shadows.
black branches that traced the blue-black heavens overhead
far away down the night sky
full moon a pale blue-white disk
night sky dull black
Stars were remote pinpricks.
a half-moon rests in the fronds over our heads
inky blackness
Thick clouds blotted out the stars.
A thin layer of clouds masked the full moon, filling the room with blue light.
Sun cast a luminescent glow.
The day was out of sync with his mood.
beautiful, 82 degrees, mild breeze, cloudless sunshine, a day for looking at a ball game
The air was cool but the sun was out.
The wind blew itself out overnight.
a web of clouds, back-lit by the failing sun, mist billowed through the trees and over the fields and hung low in the air, masking the camp in a ghostly gray
towering thunder clouds
Clouds threatening, but no rain predicted the 45-mile per hour gusts of drizzly wind.
brown cloud that passes for air
a wedge of sunlight bursting past the narrow window
The wind was icy and withering.
Heads bowed against the gusting wind.
Grit grated in his teeth. Dust was everywhere, blowing on the wind, leaving its scent in his nostrils.
as dust motes drifted
thirty miles over the horizon
razor edge of the horizon
cinder dust and gloom
The haze floated over the crowd like smoke from a doused fire.
Sun hanging in a pink haze of clouds and smog.
Fog yellowed by agricultural burning.
Fog began to billow across the road in a great grey mass like the effluent of a thousand smokestacks. The building was only a shadowy form, almost entirely lost to view.
Headlamps of cars did little to pierce the gloom.
The mist floated like smoke out of the cypress in the swamp.
dark clouds drifting over the hills
night was pitch
slice of sky
thick clouds blotted out the stars
a thin layer of clouds masked the full moon, filling the room with blue light
cool restful shady world with light filtering lazily through the treetops that meet high overhead and shut out the direct sunlight
saw the anvil of cloud coming in. “A thunderstorm.”
Cumulus clouds falling down to the…
A light breeze whispered through the trees.
cloud shadows
first cumulus clouds darkening into thunderheads
hold humidity like a sponge holds water
thick heat of the growing morning
fierce humidity
windless heat
It was surprisingly hot. He could feel the sweat roll down his sides and the dampness of the box up against his chest.
Even with the breeze, the air remained thick and hot, and it stills tank of petroleum.
sky as gray-white and sunless
against the fading layers of orange, yellow
shoulders hunched against the early morning damp and cool
fused warm light of dawn now creeping down the summit
bathed in sunlight
gold shadow not three inches from his leg
his breath steaming in the air
Snow pelted his face and he pulled up the collar of his overcoat to further shield him from the bitter weather.
rubbed his arms
A harsh winter wind blew out of a midnight sky. It roared out of the frigid north and thrashed the brooking forest. The force of it bent trees, whipping their bare branches like angry lashes. Shrieking across the river.
Cold was like that, seeping through her seven layers of clothing, attacking seams and zipper tracks and spots of thin insulation. The exposed skin on her face felt as if it had been touched with lit cigarettes.
frigid Friday morning
swirling snow
winter’s naked branches created a black tracework
The sun was climbing out of the deep well of winter, but it was still brutally cold.
winter colors daubed the land in colors of brown and gray
sunny, crisp and cool
The crisp air and clear sky energized his thoughts.

Rainy weather

grey wet morning
rain-swept and unpleasantly chilly
A flurry of rain stung my face.
Cold rain was beating down on my windshield.
The sky was leaden.
Downpour started in the early evening and continued on through the night, a heavy pelting of water that thundered against rooftops and drowned out the sound of all else. By morning, city streets were shallow rivers rushing toward the ocean.
Rain ran down the window, the streets gleamed.
damp paving stones
By the time it reaches the ground, it has spent its energy.
windshield wipers barely keeping up with the cold, hard rain
The rain came steady and cold against the windshield and rattled on the roof of the car.
turned her head away and looked out my window, where it had gotten dark and shiny with the lights glistening off the rain.
The maple trees were black and slick in the rain, their bare branches shiny. The flower bed was a soggy matting of dead stems.
The sky was low and gray.
Air was swollen.
the rain was steady and warm and vertical
drizzly rain
The sleety rain drizzled down, not very hard and not very fast, but steady.
Rain came down so hard it almost hurt, stinging the skin and blowing into the eyes and nose and mouth, but in the forest its fall is broken by the trees.
saw a distant flash of lightning, counted the seconds, and then said, “six miles, more or less.”

People in hot weather:

Heat wave hit, temperatures went soaring.
The heat hit them like a hand in the face.
strode into the dusk, into the stifling heat
The heat smacked the grin off his face.
Burst back into the blistering hot sun. Sweat immediately beaded across her brow. She could feel her T-shirt glue itself stickily to her skin.
I could feel the sweat form along my backbone and trickle down.
She slogged forward, feeling blotches of dark gray sweat bloom across the front of her T-shirt, while more trailed down the small of her back.
slogging across pavement as hot as ash in August.
white dress shirt, sharply pressed this morning, was now plastered against his chest
already short of breath, his lungs laboring as they headed down the path
still wrung out from working in the heat
Take your shirt off. Pop your underwear in the freezer. Dump a tray of ice cubes on your bed. Throw back some chilled vodka shots before you go to sleep.
The semi-drought slowly draining the life out of the grass and trees.
Only 7 in the morning, and already stocky hot. *** had a sheen across his forehead.
Sweat tricked from his forehead which he wiped with the back of his knotted, callused hand.
hundred degree heat, burning sun and parching salt
ninety-five outside, probably a hundred in the car. Not great weather for polyester suits
a fresh drop of sweat teared up on her brow and made a slow, wet path down the plane of her cheek
walking through a hair dryer
The heat slammed her like a blow.
*** cranked the air-conditioning. She stripped off her sweat-soaked clothes, climbed into the shower and scrubbed.
answered the phone while used the other hand to wipe the sweat from the back of her neck. God this heat was unbearable. The humidity level had picked up on Sunday and hadn’t done a thing to improve since.
*** thin green sundress was already plastered to her body while she could feel fresh dewdrops of moisture trickle stickily down between her breast.
Cradled the phone closer to her damp ear
Her face shiny with sweat.
Summer sun remained a brilliant, blinding white. No shade existed for miles and the heat rising up from the baked earth was brutal.
The summer heat came off the tarmac in waves.

Hot Weather

While the mercury climbed to a hundred degrees. Efforts started strong, then petered out. People got hot, got tired, got busy with other things—inside things.
Seemed to be bracing himself for leaving the cool comfort of air-conditioning behind and bursting once more into the heat
The heat settled in on them, rolling in like a heavy blanket and pressing them deep into their chairs while their clothing glued to their skin.
Even my teeth are sweating
The sun beat down relentlessly; even with the AC cranked up, she could feel the heat.
She could already feel sweat trickle down her back.
The sun burned white-hot overhead.
glass exploding from the heat of the sun
vanish in the dry season’s brown leaves

Click for the complete list of 69 writer’s themed descriptions .

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Jacqui Murray is the author of the popular Man vs. Nature saga, the Rowe-Delamagente thrillers , and the acclaimed Building a Midshipman , the story of her daughter’s journey from high school to United States Naval Academy . She is also the author/editor of over a hundred books on integrating tech into education, adjunct professor of technology in education, blog webmaster, an Amazon Vine Voice , and a freelance journalist on tech ed topics. Look for her next prehistoric fiction, Savage Land Winter 2024

122 thoughts on “ 160+ Ways to Describe Weather ”

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Weaving words so perfectly – Thanks for sharing. And overnight, a transformation. Summer at last.,, .

Like Liked by 1 person

These really inspire me. I often read through my collections when I’m stuck.

helped my writing

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Reblogged this on Coffee82 and commented: Awesome.

Like Liked by 2 people

Nice collection! A lot of poetic and inventive phrasing there.

✨🙏🕉🌱🌿🌳🌻💚🕊☯🐉✨

Weather is so many different things to different people. Not surprising I found 160 descriptions of it.

Ha! yes – that got me thinking about the old “Number of words for snow” question, and I found this . As a Scot myself though I have to say I am very, very skeptical of the final claim in that article!

I’ve heard of that, too. Luckily, my folks don’t have that problem but it is truly an issue if you’re writing about present-day groups in snowy lands.

Appreciate your list of ways to describe the weather. Timeless too. Here I am 2 years since your post and inspired by your creativity. Take care, Steve

It is timeless, isn’t it! When I put this list together, it helped me to better appreciate weather.

Impressive list. (Mine, now!) I’m compiling one for similes. Raymond Chandler makes me smile with his off the wall analogies. I recently added a Writing Terms Checklist on my free checklists page. It was too long for a post. Thanks for all you do!

I like checklists. I’ll check yours out!

Hi Jacqui, Thanks for reading my modest post. What an accomplished woman you are! What would we do without words, eh! Cheers. Joy x

Thanks, Joy. I enjoyed your thoughts. It’s amazing what inspired such accomplished writers as the Brontes.

Excellent list, Jacqui. I even get lots of ideas for titles, something I’m always struggling with entering competitions.

I grab these from books I read. You can probably tell I favor thrillers, action. I like ‘weather’ and ‘setting’ to be a character as much as the others.

That’s an amazing compilation. Thanks for sharing!!

Thanks! These sorts of lists inspire me.

An awesome post, Jacqui. Thank you. Weather intrigues. It is joy-filled and sometimes furious. God is bowling upstairs during a thunderstorm. Be well and enjoy the week. ox

Thanks–weather is fascinating. I like when I can feel it through an author’s words.

Indeed and thank you, Jacqui. Word play is an enjoyable activity. We have about seven months of winter, two days of spring and then summer at our end of the pond in Upstate New York. I love my four seasons. Be well.

7 months of winter. I didn’t know NY was that cold! Good to know so I never move there!

Jacqui, I laughed at your comment. We live near Lake Ontario and Oneida Lake and get frequent lake effect snow storms in winter. When I first moved to this area, I learned about lake effect snowstorms. We have excellent snow removal though so come on over sometime. Colorful in Autumn too.

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These are great, Jacqui! And yes, inspirational. It’s good to see how other authors describe things; it gives ideas on alternates.

It is. There are some very clever minds out there.

What an epic list 😀 Reminds me of a ‘music’ video we were recommended to watch for university called ’50 words for snow.’ It’s fun to think of different ways to describe things!

That must be put out by Eskimos. They know more about snow than anyone I’ve seen.

That’s a long list, Jacqui. So many ways to tell the day. Thanks for sharing this!

It’s one of my longest! Who knew?

That’s a lot of ideas for talking about the weather 🙂

Dinner party chat.

Quite eloquent 🙂

These lists are so inspirational! Thank you for posting this.

It is pretty interesting to view weather through so many literary eyes, innit?

Yes, indeed. I learn so much. 🙂

great list Jacqui. i use the weather regularly in my stories to create a specific mood. thanks for the info.

A bit of unexpected inspiration. Who knew weather was so interesting?

exactly, Jacqui. i also post weather images regularly on instagram. especially the colours of sunrises and sunsets in clouds during different seasons and different weather conditions.

Interesting post, Jacqui. Thanks.

I highlight memorable phrases in the Kindle books I read. Although I no longer transcribe them into a file on my computer (too time-consuming), the mere act of highlighting imprints the phrases in my mind. If an author particularly impresses me, I can scroll through the highlights and reread the highlights for inspiration.

That’s how I do it, too. I like it so well, I’ve migrated from being a print book reader to a Kindle reader.

It’s nice to see the wide variety of language. Not that it is needy. I can describe the weather currently in my area in one word — sucky! 😀

Ah South Korea. It rained most of the time on my one visit there. And no one but me seemed to care!

We’re having a monsoon right now. Don’t remember having a good one of these for a while.

I remember my son telling me July was the typhoon season, which is why we visited in May. Stay safe!

Nothing that crazy. We had a tropical depression pass through, but that’s it. It’s just wet.

I love the idea of keeping a notebook with descriptions that catch your attention. I’m going to start doing this.

Mine is so long,d I added a table of contents with links to the sections! I’m a bit nuts about it.

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I love the way you compile and share these lists with us, Jacqui. They are amazing and so helpful. Can I confess something? I share some of them with my creative writing students, and then give them prompts where they have to include 3 or more things from your lists. Will be interesting to see how I do that with weather. 🙂

This one got a little long. Who knew there were so many clever ways to describe weather?

I am flattered you share them! I would say weather could surprise them.

This one IS long – but weather gives us a lot to talk about and a lot to experience. I love the list. I will say, the prompt my students seem to love the best is. (are you sitting down?) “It was a dark and stormy night…” 🙂

Reblogged this on Marina Costa and commented: Interesting and useful to know.

Thanks for sharing, Marina!

The English should love this…

I would say India not so much. Do you-all get anything other than hot and humid or too-darn-windy?

What a helpful post, Jacqui! It reminds me of how we can put effort into our descriptions.

BTW, you won a book on my blog. Please confirm there.

Ooh, sorry I missed that. I just went over and replied and then emailed my info to you. How exciting!

Reblogged this on quirkywritingcorner and commented: I love her lists of descriptions. I hope you find them as helpful as I do.

Thanks for sharing this! It puts to bed any thought that weather is boring, doesn’t it?

That’s quite a collection, Jacqui. Isn’t it amazing that each of us can conjure something unique?

It is! Next time you don’t know what to say to someone, you can eruditely talk about the weather!

That’s so funny. Weather ‘small’ talk. Who would’ve thought. 😂

Great post. That’s a wonderful collection

Thank you so much, Luisa. It’s hard to make weather interesting but some very clever authors have done just that.

Jacqui, I love this post. The more I have been reading, the more I recognize how important it is for authors to paint a picture in your mind. To be able to put you right in the middle of the books setting. Sometimes when my mind has trailed off the story, it is descriptions like these that put my mind right back in.

That’s true, innit. A little inspiration to start your day.

I love your descriptions of weather and the times of day. Such descriptions can help add a sense of time in a story (just as the phases of the moon or the stars can create time (crescent moon in evening is aa new waxing moon, crescent moon in morning before sunrise is a waxing moon just before the “dark of the moon” which are the three days the moon is in the shadow of the earth. As for stars: Orion in winter, Scorpus in summer, etc). The dog star in Canis Major, Sirius, the brightest star in the sky, rising in late summer (as it rises just before daylight) is linked to “dog days” of summer…

I also like the old graveside prayer that describes the end of life: “until the shadows lengthen and the busy world is hushed, and the fever of life is over, then in thy mercy grant us a safe lodging and a holy rest and peace at last.”

What a wonderful poem. I’ve copied it. It captures so much of the fear and hope.

Thanks for these awesome examples, Jacqui! Saving and sharing…

It’s always fun to talk about the weather, innit?

New Jersey weather: moist ‘n’ icky.

Good description, especially the ‘icky’.

I calls ‘em like I sees ‘em.

Oh my, Jacqui. I love your lists and that’s a good long one. Great thought starters. Thanks for sharing your collection!

Since we-all know we must cover weather, I thought these were clever asnd interesting ways to do that!

Ha ha ha. I love weather. 😀

Right now there is only one way to describe the weather here in my city: hot

Here, too, though I have an excellent fan in my home office.

Some great phrases here, Jacqui. I am reading The Long Walk by Bachman/King at the moment and that has some very descriptive phrases in it.

Oooh, I’ll have to look at him. I love nature writers.

It’s not a nature book, it is a dark psychological horror.

Woah! OK, that’s different!

Darn! All the things I was about to write! 😀

Hehee. These are beyond most of what I write but I’ve seen what you turn out. Excellent.

Wonderful post!

Thanks, Ed. Food for thought…

A lot, just wonderful and so helpful.

My goodness …. can I just say ‘HOT’ … luckily today it’s cooler with a sea breeze … I need to read them all – clever and thank you! Cheers Hilary

Hot works. Absolutely.

Hahaha can I just say HOT, or the weather outside is weather yeah?

What a wonderful list, Jacqui! These are descriptions that always make me pause and reread them to fully enjoy them. They do draw the reader deep the story. I enjoyed reading these, thanks:)

Thanks! They do that for me, too, and that’s why I couldn’t just read and move on. I had to note them!

Some of these are quite lovely. Thanks for sharing.

If you recognized them from your outdoors scenes, feel free to add a note!

I actually didn’t recognize any of them. 🤔

OMG, Jacqui. What an amazing list Thanks for sharing.

It’s really nice for those whose plots take place outdoors a lot!

BTW, finished your book. Couldn’t stop reading. Wonderful.

Thank you, Jacqui. You put a smile on my face:)

Wow, great post. Bookmarking.

Amazing how much there is to say about the weather, innit?

I love weather, the seasons, earth and sky. There were some lovely gems in this collection. Thanks for sharing.

Thanks, Mae. I didn’t used to think much about the weather until I had to write about it, and make it interesting! These really struck me.

A terrific resource Jacqui. Thank you.

Thanks so much, Brigid. I couldn’t believe how many weather descriptors I had!

Nice information thanks

Thanks! Everyone writes about weather, right?

Great list, Jacqui. Thanks so much for sharing.

Thanks, Jill. Who says weather isn’t interesting? Hmm??

I think I’d like to be a meteorologist in my next life. 🙂

Reblogged this on chrismakan .

Thanks for sharing!

Wow this is very educative

I love how some writers weave their words so perfectly.

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Describe The Weather In Writing With Better Vocabulary

When you describe the weather in writing, you set the scene for your story or a part of your story.

It’s an opportunity to show readers the setting rather than tell them about the weather using a couple of quick adjectives.

Using highly descriptive or figurative language and a variety of grammar structures helps you paint the picture vividly in a reader’s mind.

In almost every story, both fiction and nonfiction, there is usually at least one reference to the weather.

In This Article

How to describe the weather in writing

We all know this famous opening line from Edward Bulwer-Lytton’s 1830 novel, Paul Clifford.

It was a dark and stormy night.

Many have criticized the phrase, and Writer’s Digest went as far as to call it the literary poster child for bad story starters.

The main issue is that it uses two very weak adjectives: dark and stormy. Neither of them is usefully descriptive.

The second problem with the phrase is that it starts with a grammatical expletive .

When writing about the weather, using it was, or there was is a common writing fault. It’s because we so often refer to the weather as it.

But few people take into account what follows Bulwer-Lytton’s famous clause. It’s a pity because the complete sentence is a wonderful example of how to describe the weather in writing.

It was a dark and stormy night; the rain fell in torrents—except at occasional intervals, when it was checked by a violent gust of wind which swept up the streets (for it is in London that our scene lies), rattling along the housetops, and fiercely agitating the scanty flame of the lamps that struggled against the darkness.

He uses descriptive noun phrases , strong verbs, and powerful adjectives.

The combination of these three elements paints a vivid picture for readers.

Choosing your vocabulary

You can find many lists of common and unusual words to describe the weather, so you have plenty of choices.

But you should avoid words that are too simplistic. It was hot, cold, windy, or rainy are all very weak expressions.

But if you describe the heat, the cold, the wind, or the rain with noun phrases, you can improve these easily.

The sun started baking early across the plains, delivering a scorching promise for the day ahead.

The cruel icy wind cut like a knife across her cheeks.

Rain, as always, arrived too little, too late to save the crops.

Words that are not widely understood are also worth avoiding. While it’s interesting to find new words, not all of them are useful.

A good example is petrichor. It is the smell or scent of rain arriving after a period of dry weather.

But it is difficult to use, and it might send readers hunting for a dictionary.

The petrichor gave a hint of hope to the farmers.

It would be better to use a descriptive phrase.

The sweet far off scent of rain on dying grass gave hope to the farmers.

Brontide is another, meaning the sound of distant thunder or rumblings of an earth tremor. Again, it’s a great word to know, but with very limited use in writing.

Try this simple formula

Anytime you need to write about the weather, keep this little trick in mind.

Start with a noun phrase, use a strong verb , then add a descriptive clause .

You also need to describe the noun and verb with adjectives and adverbs.

Here’s a quick example.

The heavy dark clouds rolled slowly and low across the parched pastures, but they were heartbreakers, as not a drop of rain fell before the cruel wind carried them away.

It’s an easy way to make sure you avoid the grammatical expletive and weak adjectives.

You can also experiment with similes or metaphors . For example, raining cats and dogs.

Use verbs that sound like the weather

Onomatopoeic verbs and words are perfect for describing the weather because they make a sound.

Here are a few examples to illustrate sound words.

The pitter-patter of raindrops.

Thunder rumbled overhead.

Light hail pinged on the window pane.

With each step, the fresh snow crunched underfoot.

A bolt of lightning cracked across the night sky.

A cold north wind hissed through the trees.

A sudden boom of thunder forewarned us of the approaching storm.

Verbs and words like these are extremely useful because they are action words and highly descriptive.

This article is not a lesson or lecture on how to describe the weather in writing.

It’s purely a reminder that you can always improve.

I have listed a few ideas above, but there are many more ways you can make the weather more interesting.

All it takes is to remember that the setting for a scene or a story needs careful thought and imagination.

But if there are two key takeaways from my article, they are these.

1. Avoid using the grammatical expletive when referencing the weather.

2. Use noun phrases and strong verbs.

If you do those two things, the rest of your weather scene setting will come very easily.

Related reading: Words To Avoid In Writing That Say Nothing

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Beginning A Composition With Weather Descriptions

Sunday, Sep 9th, 2018
By: BIG IDEAZ
Composition Framework
Writing Techniques

Estimated reading time: 5 minutes

Weather description is one of the easiest ways for young writers (6 to 8 years old) to begin their compositions. This is also usually the first story starter that they are being taught in school.

For children who are weak in the language, writing a good weather description can be an easy and effective way to get them started in their composition.

However, most teachers do not encourage flowery weather descriptions such as these:

“White fluffy clouds dotted the azure blue sky as the sun beamed beatifically, casting a golden glow upon the earth.”

“The sky was an expanse of sapphire blue, dotted with feathery white clouds as the radiant rays of the sun shone brightly in the azure blue sky.”

You get the picture.

Proper Use of Weather Descriptions in English Compositions

Weather descriptions is an easy way for young writers to begin their stories. Primary 1 and 2 students can start their compositions with weather descriptions, if weather plays a part in the plot.

There is no need to memorise a hugh chunk of bombastic weather descriptions.

Simple words can sometimes be more effective than bombastic ones.

These are some of the weather descriptions written by our P1 and P2 students:

“It was a cool and breezy evening. A strong gust of wind blew against my face.”

“It was a bright and sunny morning. White, fluffy clouds drifted across the sky.”

“Lightning flashed across the sky. A storm was coming.”

Short. Simple. Readable.

The kids came up with these weather descriptions themselves, without memorising any bombastic phrases.

Most importantly, they are natural, something which children can understand, remember and apply in their writing.

Get this set of PSLE Model Compositions with writing techniques highlighted.

So, how can children be taught to write weather descriptions?

For children who are really weak in the language, even writing a simple sentence to describe a sunny day can be difficult. These children often resort to starting their compositions with “One day, we went…” or “One fine day, Peter was …” or “Last Sunday, my family and I …”.

Such story beginnings can be boring and not captivating.

Students can learn to write effective weather descriptions. In our classes, we get our students to do brainstorming.

1. Brainstorm and make a list of all kinds of weather that you can think of.

cold and rainy
cool and breezy
bright and sunny
scorching hot

2. For each weather type, imagine how the sky, sun, clouds and other weather elements look like.

Describe each element in simple, readable English .

Weather Type: BRIGHT AND SUNNY

Describe the sun: – shines brilliantly – bright – like a fire ball

Describe the sky: – clear, blue sky

Describe the clouds: – white, fluffy clouds – sunlit clouds

3. Form sentences using some of these descriptions.

It was a bright and sunny day. The sun shone brilliantly in the clear, blue sky .

It was a bright and sunny day. White, fluffy clouds drifted across the clear, blue sky .

The above 3 steps are effective in teaching young children (Primary 1 to 3) to come up with weather descriptions that sound natural. Most children are able to come up with beautiful weather descriptions without resorting to the method of memorising huge chunks of unreadable flowery language.

Download the FREE Brainstorming Sheet for Weather Description

Use Weather Descriptions Appropriately

Some students have the habit of starting every composition with weather descriptions, regardless of topic or setting. Remember to use weather descriptions only if weather plays a part in your story. For example, if a rainy weather contributes to the plot of the story, it is a good idea to describe the weather, especially the rain and the coldness. If a story is set outdoors, it is fine to describe the weather too.

However, many students fell into the trap of starting their compositions with describing the sun, the clouds and the sky when their story is set indoors! This is a huge mistake, which should be stopped.

Other Types of Story Beginnings

For stories which are not set outdoors or not affected by the weather, there are other types of story beginnings that can be used.

Students can begin their compositions with speech , which is also a common way of beginning a primary school composition.

Another effective way is to begin with a captivating statement or an intriguing question. Such a beginning hooks readers immediately to read on. When used correctly, it piques a reader’s curiosity and make them want to continue reading to find out what happens next.

Upper primary students can begin their stories with character descriptions . This is useful to show a change in the character at the end of the story. For example, a timid person who became courageous, or a bully regretting his actions and turning over a new leaf.

Beginning with an action is great if you want to move the story along quickly. Students can use suitable vivid verbs to clearly describe a character’s actions at the beginning of the story.

Get our FREE pack of 300 vocabulary cards that your child can use in his or her compositions.

Writing is a skill that improves with practice.

Enrol in our highly popular Writing Academy or Junior Writing Academy , our online courses that support primary school students in developing their English composition writing skills.

Author: BIG IDEAZ

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How to Describe the Wind in Writing (100 Words + Examples)

It can be a bit tricky to find the right words or phrases to make your readers see and feel the wind.

Here is how to describe the wind in writing:

Describe the wind in writing by using sensory language to evoke its force, sound, temperature, effect, direction, time of day, and personified traits. Each description should enhance the narrative, helping to set the scene, build atmosphere, and engage the reader.

In this guide, we’ll discuss all the different ways to describe wind based on its force, sound, speed, and more.

Describing Wind by Its Force

Cartoon sun and wind - How to describe the wind in writing

Table of Contents

The force of the wind can dramatically change the perception of a scene.

The contrast between a gentle breeze and a violent gale is not just a measure of intensity.

But can also signify changing moods, symbolize emotional shifts, or foreshadow significant events.

Here is how to do it:

Gentle : A gentle wind softly touches, a delicate interaction with the environment. Example: “The gentle wind caressed the petals of the blooming flowers, their fragrance subtly wafting in the air.”
Light : A light breeze is almost playful, just strong enough to stir the leaves. Example: “A light wind tugged at her hair as she sat by the river, the tranquil scene filling her with peace.”
Calm : A calm wind denotes tranquility and serenity, ideal for peaceful settings. Example: “The calm wind moved lazily through the tall grass, making it sway like waves in a calm sea.”
Whispering : A whispering wind is quiet, giving a sense of intimacy and closeness. Example: “The whispering wind carried the melody of the distant lullaby, lulling the town to sleep.”
Soothing : A soothing wind provides relief or comfort. Example: “The soothing wind was a balm against the harsh summer heat, its gentle caress reviving his spirits.”
Blustery : A blustery wind is strong and cold, often associated with the autumn and winter months. Example: “The blustery wind cut through his jacket, making him shiver as he trod the leaf-strewn path.”
Howling : A howling wind is fierce, invoking images of storms or tempests. Example: “The howling wind made the old house creak ominously, its eerie tune setting the mood for the night.”
Fierce : A fierce wind indicates a wild and uncontrolled force. Example: “The fierce wind shook the window panes, a testament to the storm’s power.”
Wild : Wild wind suggests a sense of chaos and lack of control. Example: “The wild wind tossed the ship like a toy, waves crashing over the deck.”
Gusty : Gusty winds are strong and sudden, capable of causing brief moments of disarray. Example: “The gusty wind snatched the papers from his hands, scattering them in every direction.”

Describing Wind by Its Sound

The sound of the wind is often used to set the atmosphere of a scene.

From the silent rustling of leaves to the ominous howling in a storm, the sonic quality of wind can bring your writing to life.

Soft : A soft wind might be barely audible, adding a sense of tranquility. Example: “The soft rustle of the wind through the trees was a soothing backdrop to their quiet conversation.”
Hushed : A hushed wind is a secret whisper, barely noticeable. Example: “A hushed breeze stirred the silent forest, the only sign of life in the deep wilderness.”
Silent : A silent wind might not make any sound, but its effects can be seen or felt. Example: “The silent wind danced with the dunes, shifting the desert landscape as if alive.”
Quiet : A quiet wind does not overpower other sounds, acting as a subtle background note. Example: “The quiet wind murmured through the leaves, a soft accompaniment to the chorus of singing birds.”
Noisy : A noisy wind is boisterous, drawing attention to its presence. Example: “The noisy wind rustled the newspapers, alerting the alley cat of someone’s approach.”
Roaring : A roaring wind has a deep, loud sound, often associated with storms or extreme weather. Example: “The roaring wind was deafening, drowning out all other sounds.”
Screaming : A screaming wind gives the impression of high intensity or danger. Example: “The wind screamed around them, a chilling prelude to the approaching hurricane.”
Howling : A howling wind is loud and sorrowful, invoking a sense of loneliness or fear. Example: “The howling wind seemed to voice the loneliness of the old mansion, its chilling song echoing in the empty rooms.”
Whistling : A whistling wind creates high-pitched sounds as it passes through narrow spaces. Example: “The wind whistled through the bare branches, a lonely melody in the frigid winter air.”
Moaning : A moaning wind can suggest discomfort or eeriness. Example: “The wind moaned through the ruined tower, its ghostly sighs stirring tales of lost battles and ancient sorrows.”

Describing Wind by Its Speed

The speed of the wind can influence the rhythm and pacing of your writing.

Slow winds might suggest a leisurely pace, while fast winds can bring energy and excitement.

Slow : A slow wind suggests a relaxed or languid mood. Example: “The slow wind moved lazily across the field, the daisies bending and swaying in a slow dance.”
Lazy : A lazy wind has a lackadaisical quality, perfect for a calm, sunny afternoon. Example: “A lazy wind drifted through the orchard, the scent of ripe apples carried in its wake.”
Languid : A languid wind is slow and relaxed, hinting at tranquility and leisure. Example: “The languid breeze that wafted from the sea brought a sense of calm and serenity.”
Meandering : A meandering wind takes its time, as though it’s enjoying the journey rather than rushing towards a destination. Example: “The meandering wind played amidst the autumn leaves, carrying them on a leisurely dance.”
Drifting : A drifting wind is unhurried and aimless, adding a dreamlike quality to the scene. Example: “The drifting wind carried the scent of lilacs, its sweet perfume invoking memories of past summers.”
Fast : A fast wind is full of energy, ideal for scenes of action or urgency. Example: “The fast wind whipped her hair around her face as she raced down the hill.”
Quick : A quick wind might signal an abrupt change or a breathless moment. Example: “The quick wind brought the first hint of the storm, the air suddenly heavy with tension.”
Swift : A swift wind brings movement and flow to the scene, emphasizing speed and motion. Example: “The swift wind carried the fallen petals, creating a blizzard of cherry blossoms.”
Rushing : A rushing wind suggests urgency or turmoil. Example: “The rushing wind tore through the narrow streets, a harbinger of the tempest to come.”
Speeding : A speeding wind signifies rapid movement and can be used to convey a sense of excitement or danger. Example: “The speeding wind roared in his ears as he plummeted towards the ground, his parachute trailing behind him.”

Describing Wind by Its Temperature

The temperature of the wind can greatly influence the overall feeling of a scene.

Whether a warm summer breeze or a frigid winter gust, the wind’s temperature can evoke a range of emotions and sensations in the reader.

Warm : A warm wind suggests comfort and the promise of balmy weather. Example: “The warm wind, heavy with the scent of blooming jasmine, hinted at the approaching summer.”
Hot : A hot wind can be oppressive, often associated with desert or drought conditions. Example: “The hot wind carried the sting of the sand, searing any exposed skin.”
Cool : A cool wind is often refreshing, a welcome relief from the heat. Example: “The cool wind that rustled the palm leaves brought momentary relief from the tropical heat.”
Cold : A cold wind might suggest discomfort or harsh weather conditions. Example: “The cold wind gnawed at their cheeks, turning them a rosy pink.”
Chilling : A chilling wind often connotes something ominous or foreboding. Example: “The chilling wind blew through the graveyard, making the mourners shiver uncontrollably.”
Icy : An icy wind is not only cold but also piercing, cutting through layers of clothing. Example: “The icy wind cut through her coat like a knife, making her shudder with cold.”
Frigid : A frigid wind can suggest extreme cold, often associated with winter or high-altitude settings. Example: “The frigid wind howled across the snow-covered mountains, stinging any exposed skin.”
Scorching : A scorching wind is intensely hot, like being in an oven or near a fire. Example: “The scorching wind was like a wall of heat, making the mere act of breathing a challenge.”
Refreshing : A refreshing wind is cool and invigorating, often associated with spring or morning breezes. Example: “The refreshing wind stirred the wildflowers, carrying their sweet scent across the meadow.”
Biting : A biting wind is harsh and painful, carrying an insinuation of discomfort or hostility. Example: “The biting wind whipped around them, making every step a battle against the elements.”

Describing Wind by Its Effects

Another way to describe the wind is by the impact it has on the surrounding environment.

This can provide a vivid, indirect way of conveying the strength or character of the wind.

Rustling : A rustling wind gently stirs leaves and grass. Example: “The rustling wind stirred up the autumn leaves, creating a colorful whirlwind.”
Whipping : A whipping wind moves with force, capable of causing disarray. Example: “The whipping wind tore at their clothes, making it hard to move forward.”
Caressing : A caressing wind moves gently, like a lover’s touch. Example: “The caressing wind played with her hair, sending shivers down her spine.”
Tugging : A tugging wind pulls at things, providing a sense of its strength. Example: “The tugging wind pulled at his hat, threatening to send it flying.”
Stirring : A stirring wind causes slight movement, especially in water or loose particles like sand or dust. Example: “The stirring wind created tiny ripples across the pond, disturbing the otherwise mirror-like surface.”
Sweeping : A sweeping wind suggests broad, fast movement over a large area. Example: “The sweeping wind cleared the fog, revealing the breathtaking vista of the valley below.”
Roaring : A roaring wind gives an impression of intensity and might. Example: “The roaring wind stripped the trees of their autumn leaves, leaving the branches bare and exposed.”
Dancing : A dancing wind moves unpredictably, swirling and changing direction. Example: “The dancing wind swirled the snowflakes into intricate patterns, as if orchestrating a ballet of the elements.”
Carrying : A carrying wind can transport scents, sounds, or smaller objects over distances. Example: “The carrying wind brought the distant sound of church bells, drifting on the air like a sacred melody.”
Buffeting : A buffeting wind strikes repeatedly and forcefully, causing everything in its path to shake or rattle. Example: “The buffeting wind rattled the old window frames, their constant clattering a testament to the storm’s fury.”

Describing Wind by Its Direction

The direction of the wind can have significant implications for your narrative, from determining the movement of clouds to hinting at changes in weather or seasons.

Here is how to describe the wind by its direction:

North : A north wind, often cold, can signify the arrival of winter or a cooling trend. Example: “The north wind carried the scent of snow, a chilling harbinger of the approaching winter.”
South : A south wind is typically warm, often suggesting the onset of spring or summer. Example: “The south wind, laden with the heady fragrance of blooming roses, heralded the arrival of a sultry summer.”
East : An east wind can be seen as bringing change or new beginnings. Example: “The east wind brought the first light of dawn, casting long shadows on the silent town.”
West : A west wind often carries the connotation of ending or closure. Example: “The west wind carried the last notes of the song, echoing the sun’s farewell as it dipped below the horizon.”
Upland : An upland wind moves uphill, suggesting effort or challenge. Example: “The upland wind whispered encouraging words in her ear as she climbed the steep hill.”
Downland : A downland wind moves downhill, hinting at ease or relaxation. Example: “The downland wind guided the fallen leaves on their journey to the valley.”
Seaward : A seaward wind moves towards the sea, often evoking a sense of longing or adventure. Example: “The seaward wind filled their sails, drawing them towards the vast, unexplored ocean.”
Landward : A landward wind moves towards land, typically associated with feelings of safety or return. Example: “The landward wind carried the familiar scent of pine and woodsmoke, a promise of home.”
Incoming : An incoming wind moves towards the observer, indicating the approach of something. Example: “The incoming wind carried the distant rumble of thunder, a stark warning of the storm’s approach.”
Outgoing : An outgoing wind moves away from the observer, often signaling departure or relief. Example: “The outgoing wind took the last traces of the forest fire, the air finally clear and breathable.”

Describing Wind by Its Time of Day

The time of day can also influence how the wind is perceived, adding an additional layer of nuance to your descriptions.

Morning : A morning wind suggests freshness and the beginning of a new day. Example: “The morning wind, cool and crisp, breathed life into the sleepy town.”
Noon : A noon wind often conveys the intensity of the midday sun. Example: “The noon wind, hot and dry, made the mirages dance on the distant horizon.”
Afternoon : An afternoon wind can signal a gradual easing of the day’s heat. Example: “The afternoon wind brought welcome relief, stirring the lethargic summer air.”
Evening : An evening wind often indicates the transition from day to night. Example: “The evening wind carried the twilight song of the birds, an enchanting serenade as day gave way to night.”
Night : A night wind is typically associated with mystery, calm, or the unknown. Example: “The night wind whispered tales of forgotten times, its hushed voice blending with the rustle of the ancient trees.”
Dawn : A dawn wind implies new beginnings or hope. Example: “The dawn wind stirred the sea into a shimmering canvas, painting the first light of day in vibrant hues of orange and gold.”
Dusk : A dusk wind carries the end of the day and the onset of the evening. Example: “The dusk wind rustled the falling leaves, echoing the sun’s farewell as it dipped below the horizon.”
Midnight : A midnight wind can evoke the depth of the night and the mysteries it holds. Example: “The midnight wind carried the eerie howls from the distance, its chilling message clear in the silent night.”
Daybreak : A daybreak wind suggests renewal or a fresh start. Example: “The daybreak wind carried the scent of dew-kissed grass, a subtle hint of the world awakening to a new day.”
Twilight : A twilight wind signifies transition or change, often bringing a sense of calm. Example: “The twilight wind stirred the lavender fields, their soothing scent bringing a serene end to the day.”

Describing Wind by Its Smell

Scents carried by the wind can help set the scene and evoke strong emotions and memories in your readers.

Here are a few ways you can describe wind by its smell:

Salt-tinged : A wind that carries the smell of the sea. Example: “A salt-tinged wind swept across the deck, instantly transporting him back to his childhood summers by the ocean.”
Pine-scented : A wind carrying the aroma of pine forests. Example: “The pine-scented wind was a refreshing balm, cleaning the city smog from her lungs.”
Smoky : A wind that carries the smell of smoke, indicating a fire. Example: “The smoky wind stung their eyes and throats, a cruel herald of the approaching wildfire.”
Floral : A wind filled with the scent of flowers. Example: “A floral wind drifted through the open window, the intoxicating perfume of the garden mingling with the crisp linen sheets.”
Dusty : A wind that carries the smell of dust or dry earth. Example: “The dusty wind was a tangible reminder of the long, parched summer.”
Rain-soaked : A wind carrying the fresh smell of rain or an approaching storm. Example: “The rain-soaked wind promised a respite from the relentless heat.”
Herb-laden : A wind filled with the smell of herbs, indicating a nearby garden or meadow. Example: “The herb-laden wind carried notes of lavender and rosemary, a comforting reminder of home.”
Citrusy : A wind carrying the zesty aroma of citrus fruits. Example: “A citrusy wind drifted from the orange groves, filling the afternoon with a tangy sweetness.”
Decaying : A wind that carries the smell of decay, indicating rot or death. Example: “The decaying wind held the grim scent of the battlefield, a chilling testament to the day’s losses.”
Spicy : A wind filled with the scent of spices, indicating a nearby marketplace or kitchen. Example: “The spicy wind was thick with the promise of delicious meals, making her stomach growl in anticipation.”

Describing Wind by Its Feeling

Describing the wind by its physical sensation on a character’s skin can help immerse the reader in the scene.

Stinging : A wind that is harsh and biting. Example: “The stinging wind battered his face, each gust like a slap of cold, wet canvas.”
Tickling : A light wind that playfully brushes against the skin. Example: “The tickling wind teased her bare arms, leaving goosebumps in its wake.”
Caressing : A gentle wind that softly touches the skin. Example: “The caressing wind was a tender lover, its soft touch bringing comfort to her weary body.”
Slapping : A strong, abrupt wind. Example: “The slapping wind caught her off guard, its sudden force nearly knocking her off her feet.”
Grazing : A gentle wind barely noticeable on the skin. Example: “The grazing wind was a soft sigh against her cheek, a barely-there touch that hinted at the storm’s retreat.”
Biting : A cold, harsh wind that feels as though it’s biting into the skin. Example: “The biting wind gnawed at his fingertips, the relentless cold seeping through his gloves.”
Scratching : A wind carrying sand or tiny debris that feels abrasive on the skin. Example: “The scratching wind was a desert beast, its sandy claws scraping against his exposed skin.”
Soothing : A wind that brings relief or comfort. Example: “The soothing wind was a welcome respite from the stifling heat, its gentle caress cooling her sunburnt skin.”
Clammy : A wind that is damp and cold. Example: “The clammy wind clung to her clothes, the damp chill seeping into her bones.”
Prickling : A wind that makes the skin tingle, often due to cold or static. Example: “The prickling wind was a ghost’s touch, its chilling caress raising goosebumps on her skin.”

Here is a video on how to describe a windy day:

How Do You Personify Wind?

Personification is a powerful literary device that gives human characteristics to non-human entities.

When it comes to the wind, personification can be an excellent tool to create vivid imagery, build atmosphere, and engage readers on a deeper level.

Consider these techniques to personify the wind:

Whispering : Giving the wind the ability to whisper can make it seem secretive or intimate. Example: “The wind whispered through the treetops, carrying secrets from one part of the forest to another.”
Laughing : A laughing wind can express joy, freedom, or mischief. Example: “The wind laughed in the open fields, playfully rustling the wildflowers as it passed.”
Singing : When the wind sings, it creates a sense of harmony or melody. Example: “The wind sang a lullaby, its soothing hum gently lulling the world to sleep.”
Mourning : A mourning wind carries an impression of sadness or loss. Example: “The wind mourned through the empty streets, a sorrowful echo of the town’s former life.”
Dancing : A dancing wind implies movement, celebration, or unpredictability. Example: “The wind danced through the autumn leaves, twirling them in a whirl of gold and red.”
Roaring : A roaring wind can depict anger, might, or wildness. Example: “The wind roared across the desolate plains, venting its fury on the barren landscape.”
Caressing : If the wind is caressing something, it gives a sense of gentleness or affection. Example: “The wind caressed the waves, leaving a trail of shimmering ripples in its wake.”
Teasing : A teasing wind suggests playfulness and lightness. Example: “The wind teased her hair, tossing it this way and that in a playful game.”
Sighing : A sighing wind can convey disappointment, relief, or resignation. Example: “The wind sighed through the abandoned corridors, echoing the despair left behind.”
Chasing : A chasing wind implies speed, pursuit, or play. Example: “The wind chased the fallen leaves, their rustling flight a merry chase across the park.”

Final Thoughts: How to Describe the Wind in Writing

When you describe wind in your story, try to link your description to the plot, theme, characters, and specific scene.

Everything should tie into the same knotted storyline.

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An Easy Guide to Talking About Weather in English: 121 Key Words and Phrases You Need to Know

Whether you’re standing in the grocery checkout line or meeting new people at a party, the weather is a popular conversation starter.

Many of us keep the weather forecast on our phones, and it helps us decide what we’re going to do for the day.

In this post, you’ll learn all the terms you need to talk about weather in English, like describing sunny days, stormy days and all those in between —as well as why the weather is considered such a hot topic.

How to Talk About Weather in English

1. how’s the weather / what’s it like out there, 2. what’s the temperature like (out there), 3. what’s the weather forecast, 4. what a beautiful day, 5. it’s warm and sunny outside., 6. we couldn’t ask for better weather., 7. this is the best weather we’ve had all season, 8. awful weather, isn’t it, 9. it’s boiling hot, 10. it’s freezing outside, 11. i can’t believe this weather, 12. it’s raining cats and dogs, 13. it looks like rain., 14. a storm seems to be coming this way., 15. the weather will be warming up soon., 16. it’s expected to be hotter than last year., the difference between weather vs. climate vs. temperature, more useful weather words in english, words to describe the weather in english, vocabulary for extreme weather conditions, weather clothes and accessories in english, weather idioms in english, and one more thing....

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Whether you’re at the coffee machine or waiting your turn at the post office, you might get into a casual conversation with the person next to you about what’s happening outside.

Here are some phrases to talk about the weather in English.

Both of these are good questions to ask if you haven’t gone outside in a while, and you’re wondering if things have changed.

Or maybe you’re still debating about whether or not you want to venture (go) outdoors, so you might ask this to someone who comes inside.

This question is asking about degrees in Fahrenheit or Celsius . However, people are typically looking for an approximate temperature:

It’s around 40°.

Of course, an answer like the following is still acceptable:

It’s really (hot/cold/warm/cool).

If you’re planning a trip or event, you might want to know the weather ahead of time. Forecast simply refers to what kind of weather is expected in the coming days or weeks.

Use other adjectives like nice or gorgeous to make your descriptions more interesting.

This is a simple sentence using two or more descriptive adjectives.

It’s warm and windy outside.

Blue skies is a phrase meaning a sign of good weather:

There’s nothing but blue skies outside.

Here the use of the comparative adjective better suggests that the weather is so good that it couldn’t get any better. You could use other comparative adjectives like nicer or more beautiful .

We couldn’t ask for nicer weather this week!

The superlative adjective best is used to show that this weather is simply the best and nothing else can be better. You can also use worse with this sentence structure.

Here’s another example:

This is the most beautiful weather we’ve had all week!

This is the worst weather we’ve had all spring!

Using the question form can be quite refreshing, especially when you expect the person to agree with you. You could use similar adjectives like nasty or terrible instead.

Nasty weather today, isn’t it?

The word boiling is used here as an adjective, not as a verb, to create an image of how hot it is. You could also use adverbs like extremely or really .

In this simple sentence, you may use any verb in its -ing form to describe the weather, such as pouring (raining very heavily) or sizzling (very hot).

Here’s a simple way to express your surprise. Feel free to use any other suitable noun such as storm or wind .

This is a popular idiom (expression) for saying that it’s raining heavily. Have fun with it.

Here you’re saying it looks like it might rain in the near future. It could be that you can see dark clouds or hear thunder. You could use other nouns like snow or a storm .

The phrase seems to be suggests that a storm is likely to be coming. You could also say:

Heavy rain seems to be heading this way.

Warming up means the temperatures will be rising and it’s getting warmer. The opposite of that would be:

The weather will be cooling down soon.

The phrase expected to be suggests that you think it’ll happen.

Use a comparative adjective here to compare the weather now with another time in the past. You could use other comparative adjectives like colder or less windy .

In English, the words “weather,” “climate” and “temperature” usually aren’t interchangeable. This means they have slightly different meanings.

Weather is used to describe what’s going on outside. For example, the weather can be stormy, sunny, cloudy or rainy.

Climate refers to the weather tendencies of a place. For example, the climate of Texas—a state in the United States—can be described as scorching hot summers and mild winters.

Finally, the temperature is how hot or cold it is outside. In most countries, the temperature is expressed in degrees Celsius. But in the United States, you’ll hear the degrees in Fahrenheit.

Examples of temperatures are 85 degrees, 90 degrees and 32 degrees.

If you’re looking for more vocabulary to help you talk about the weather in English, here’s everything you need:

So there you have it—a great list of weather words and phrases to get you talking about weather like a native speaker .

I expect you’ll warm up to (get used to) these sentence structures pretty quickly!

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Finally, remember to practice the words, phrases and questions in this post so you can feel comfortable using them in conversations.

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If you want to watch it, the FluentU app has probably got it.

The FluentU app and website makes it really easy to watch English videos. There are captions that are interactive. That means you can tap on any word to see an image, definition, and useful examples.

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Student Essays

Essay on Weather [ Types, Importance in Life ]

Weather is the state of the atmosphere at a particular place and time. It includes temperature, humidity, precipitation, cloudiness, visibility, and pressure. The following Essay on Weather talks about its meaning and concept, types and how weather is important for us.

Essay on Weather | Types of Weather | Weather vs Climate

Weather is one of the most important aspects of our lives. It can have a huge impact on our mood, our health, and even our ability to function properly during the day. That’s why it’s so important to understand the different types of weather and how they can affect us.

Types of Weather

There are four main types of weather: sunny, cloudy, rainy, and snowy. Each type of weather has its own set of benefits and drawbacks.

Sunny: Sunny weather is great for outdoor activities and spending time in the sun. However, it can also be very hot and dry, which can be dangerous for people with certain medical conditions.

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Cloudy: Cloudy weather is cooler than sunny weather, but it can also be more humid. This type of weather is good for people who don’t like the heat but don’t want to deal with the cold.

Rainy: Rainy weather is perfect for activities that involve water, such as swimming or fishing. However, it can also be very muddy and wet, which can make it difficult to get around.

Snowy: Snowy weather is great for winter activities like skiing and sledding. However, it can also be very cold and dangerous for people who are not used to the cold weather.

Weather vs Climate:

Weather is the day-to-day condition of the atmosphere in a particular place, while climate is the average weather conditions in that place over a long period of time. Climate varies from place to place around the world. The climate in a tropical rainforest is very different from the climate in a desert.

Importance of Climate

Climate is important because it determines the types of plants and animals that can live in a particular place. For example, tropical rainforests have a very different climate from deserts. This means that different types of plants and animals can live in each environment.

Changes in Climate:

Climate change is a long-term shift in the average conditions of the atmosphere over a large area. Climate change could refer to a particular location or the planet as a whole. Climate change has been happening for millions of years, but it is only recently that humans have begun to impact the climate on a global scale.

Steps that we can take to Promote Healthy Weather

There are many things we can do to help promote healthy weather. Some of these steps include:

1. Reducing greenhouse gas emissions by using less energy and switching to renewable sources of energy 2. Protecting and restoring forests, which play a vital role in regulating the climate 3. Improving agricultural practices to reduce methane emissions from livestock 4. Conserving water to reduce the amount of energy needed to pump and treat it

Weather is an important part of our lives and can have a big impact on our mood, health, and ability to function properly. There are four main types of weather: sunny, cloudy, rainy, and snowy. Each type of weather has its own set of benefits and drawbacks. Climate is important because it determines the types of plants and animals that can live in a particular place.

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Climate change is a long-term shift in the average conditions of the atmosphere over a large area. There are many things we can do to help promote healthy weather, such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions, protecting and restoring forests, and improving agricultural practices.

Short Essay on Weather For Students:

Weather is the state of the atmosphere at a specific time and place. It includes various elements such as temperature, humidity, precipitation, wind, and air pressure. Weather plays an important role in our daily lives as it affects our activities and influences our mood.

Importance of Weather

Weather has a significant impact on human life. It affects agriculture, transportation, tourism, health, and even the economy. Farmers rely on weather conditions for their crops to grow while tourists plan their trips based on favorable weather conditions. Weather also has an effect on mental health as certain weather patterns can lead to seasonal affective disorder (SAD).

Factors Affecting Weather

The main factors that influence the weather are latitude, altitude, topography, and global air circulation patterns. Latitude determines the amount of sunlight received, while altitude affects temperature and precipitation. The shape of the land and presence of water bodies can also affect weather patterns.

Weather conditions can vary greatly depending on geographical location and time of year. Some common types of weather include sunny, cloudy, rainy, snowy, windy, hot, cold, and humid.

Sunny Weather

Sunny weather is characterized by clear skies with abundant sunshine. It usually occurs when high pressure systems dominate the area.

Cloudy Weather

Cloudy weather refers to a condition where the sky is covered with clouds blocking out the sun’s rays. This type of weather often occurs during low-pressure systems.

Rainy Weather

Rainy weather is characterized by precipitation in the form of rain. It can be caused by warm air rising and condensing into water droplets, which then fall to the ground.

Snowy Weather

Snowy weather occurs when temperatures are low enough for precipitation to freeze and fall as snow. This type of weather often brings hazardous driving conditions and can lead to school or work closures.

Windy Weather

Windy weather refers to a condition where there is a strong movement of air. It can be caused by differences in air pressure between two areas or by geographical features such as mountains.

Hot Weather

Hot weather is characterized by high temperatures and humidity levels. It can cause heat-related illnesses such as heatstroke and dehydration if precautions are not taken.

Cold Weather

Cold weather is characterized by low temperatures and can bring about freezing conditions, which can be dangerous for both humans and animals.

Humid Weather

Humid weather refers to a condition where there is a high level of water vapor in the air. It can make hot or cold temperatures feel even more extreme and uncomfortable.

Weather affects our lives in many ways, from influencing our daily activities to shaping our emotions. Understanding the different types of weather and the factors that influence them can help us better prepare for any changes in the forecast. As we continue to face the impacts of climate change, it becomes even more important to pay attention to the weather and take necessary precautions to protect ourselves and our environment.

How do you write a weather essay?

A weather essay typically begins with an introduction about the significance of weather, followed by a description of different weather phenomena, their impact on daily life, and any relevant data or statistics. It should also include personal observations or experiences related to weather and conclude with a summary or reflection.

What is weather in 100 words?

Weather refers to the atmospheric conditions in a specific place and time. It encompasses elements such as temperature, humidity, wind speed and direction, cloud cover, and precipitation. Weather can change rapidly and has a profound impact on daily life, agriculture, transportation, and various industries.

It is observed and forecasted by meteorologists using tools like weather stations, satellites, and computer models. Understanding and predicting weather is essential for planning outdoor activities, preparing for extreme conditions, and mitigating the effects of severe weather events like storms, hurricanes, and droughts.

What is weather in short notes?

Weather refers to the state of the atmosphere in a particular place at a specific time. It includes elements like temperature, humidity, wind speed and direction, cloud cover, and precipitation. Weather conditions can vary from day to day and even within hours.

Meteorologists study and forecast weather using various instruments and technology to provide information for planning activities, predicting severe weather events, and understanding climate patterns over time.

How do you start a weather paragraph?

A weather paragraph can begin by describing the current weather conditions in a specific location or by introducing the topic of weather in a broader sense. You can use attention-grabbing phrases or statistics to engage the reader’s interest.

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How To Describe Winter Season In Writing (12 Best Ways, Adjectives& Quotes)

Describing the winter season in writing is an enchanting endeavor that allows words to transcend the boundaries of language and immerse the reader in a world of frosty wonder.

Winter’s crystalline landscapes, snow-laden boughs, and icy breath create a canvas upon which authors paint with vivid imagery and sensory details.

It’s a season of contrasts—of stark beauty and harsh conditions, introspection and celebration, solitude and togetherness.

In this exploration of how to encapsulate the essence of winter through words, we embark on a journey to capture the season’s profound impact on the natural world, human emotions, and daily life.

Join us as we delve into the art of storytelling amidst the snowflakes and chill, discovering the power of language to transport readers to the heart of winter’s enchantment.

Table of Contents

How To Describe Winter Season In Writing

Describing the winter season in writing involves creating a vivid and sensory-rich portrayal of this time of year. Here’s a step-by-step process on how to do it:

Observation and Note-taking

Start by observing the winter environment. Take notes on what you see, hear, smell, taste, and feel during this season. Pay attention to the landscapes, weather, and activities associated with winter.

Setting the Scene

Begin your description by setting the scene. Describe the location and time of day. For example, “In the heart of a snow-covered forest on a crisp winter morning…”

Weather and Temperature

Mention the weather conditions. Is it snowing, sleeting, or just cold and clear? Use sensory words to convey the temperature, such as “biting cold” or “frosty.”

Landscape and Nature

Describe the natural elements. Mention the snow-covered trees, frozen lakes, icicles hanging from rooftops, or the crunch of snow beneath your feet. Use descriptive language to paint a picture of the winter landscape.

Sounds of Winter

Include the sounds of winter. Describe the quiet hush of falling snow, the crunch of boots on a snow-covered path, or the distant laughter of children playing in the snow.

Activities and Traditions

Write about the activities and traditions associated with winter. Mention sledding, building snowmen, ice skating, or holiday celebrations. Describe how people dress warmly and gather around the fire.

Sensory Details

Engage the reader’s senses. Use descriptive language to evoke the feeling of cold air on the skin, the taste of hot cocoa or spiced cider, the scent of pine trees, or the sight of twinkling holiday lights.

Emotions and Moods

Explore the emotions and moods that winter evokes. Talk about the coziness of being bundled up indoors, the sense of wonder as snow falls, or the nostalgia of the holiday season.

Metaphors and Similes

Consider using metaphors and similes to make your description more vivid. For example, “The snow-covered landscape was like a blank canvas waiting for the artist’s touch.”

Transitions and Flow

Ensure a smooth flow in your writing. Use transition words and phrases to connect your descriptions, so the reader can move seamlessly from one aspect of winter to another.

Editing and Polishing

Review and revise your writing for clarity, coherence, and conciseness. Eliminate unnecessary words and ensure your descriptions are engaging.

Wrap up your description by summarizing the essence of the winter season. Leave the reader with a lasting impression of what makes winter special or unique.

By following these steps, you can effectively describe the winter season in your writing , bringing it to life for your readers.

How To Describe Winter Season In Writing

Adjectives Or Words To Describe Winter

Crisp: Winter air often feels crisp, with a sharp and refreshing quality that invigorates the senses. The cold temperatures contribute to this characteristic, creating a clear and clean atmosphere.

Frosty: Winter landscapes can be described as frosty, with a delicate layer of frozen dew or ice crystals covering surfaces, giving them a sparkling and magical appearance.

Snowy: One of the defining features of winter is the presence of snow. A snowy scene evokes a sense of purity and tranquility, transforming the environment into a soft, white wonderland.

Cozy: Winter is synonymous with cozy moments spent indoors by a warm fire, wrapped in blankets, and enjoying the comfort of home. This adjective captures the feeling of warmth and contentment during the colder months.

Serene: Winter landscapes often exude a sense of serenity, with quiet snow-covered surroundings and a calm stillness that can be both peaceful and contemplative.

Invigorating: The brisk, cold air of winter can be invigorating, awakening the senses and providing a refreshing contrast to the warmth of indoor spaces.

Whimsical: Winter can have a whimsical quality, especially when snowflakes fall gently, creating a dreamlike and enchanting atmosphere that feels almost magical.

Glistening: The sunlight reflecting off the snow and ice can make winter landscapes glisten, adding a touch of brilliance and sparkle to the scenery.

Majestic: Winter’s landscapes, with snow-covered trees and frost-laden branches, often evoke a sense of majesty and grandeur, transforming ordinary scenes into something extraordinary.

Enchanting: Winter possesses an enchanting quality, with its frosty beauty and the hushed stillness of snow-covered landscapes, captivating observers and creating a sense of wonder.

Quotes About Winter Season

Here are a few quotations about the winter season, along with references:

“Winter is the time for comfort, for good food and warmth, for the touch of a friendly hand and for a talk beside the fire: it is the time for home.” (Edith Sitwell)

“Winter is the time of promise because there is so little to do – or because you can now and then permit yourself the luxury of thinking so.” (Stanley Crawford)

“A snow day literally and figuratively falls from the sky—unbidden—and seems like a thing of wonder.” (Susan Orlean)

“Winter, a lingering season, is a time to gather golden moments, embark upon a sentimental journey, and enjoy every idle hour.” (John Boswell)

“In the depth of winter, I finally learned that within me there lay an invincible summer.” (Albert Camus)

Creating a Winter Wonderland

Creating a winter wonderland is like painting with nature’s own brush, a masterpiece forged from frost and magic.

As you step into this crystalline realm, the world transforms into a shimmering paradise. Each flake of snow, like a unique work of art, adorns the landscape with intricate designs.

The air is electric with the promise of quiet miracles, and every tree stands as a sentinel wrapped in glistening crystal armor.

Here, the world becomes a hushed symphony of nature’s whispers, inviting you to explore the enchantment hidden within the icy tapestry.

The power of sensory details

The power of sensory details lies in their ability to breathe life into words, transforming a mere description into a vivid and immersive experience for the reader.

When you evoke the senses of sight, sound, touch, smell, and taste in your writing, you engage the reader on a profound level.

With the stroke of a pen or the typing of keys, you can make them see the snow-capped mountains, hear the melodic chirping of birds, feel the cool breeze on their skin, catch the aroma of blooming flowers, or even taste the bittersweet nostalgia of a childhood memory.

These sensory elements not only enrich the narrative but also create an emotional connection, making the reader not just a passive observer but an active participant in the world you’ve crafted.

In the hands of a skilled writer, sensory details have the power to transcend words, leaving an indelible impression on the reader’s imagination.

Describing winter’s effect on the environment

Winter casts its enchanting spell upon the environment, turning the world into a breathtaking tableau of transformation.

As temperatures plummet and the first snowflakes descend, a serene hush blankets the land. Bodies of water, once teeming with life, now lie beneath a crystalline veneer, their surfaces frozen in stillness.

Windows become canvases for delicate frost patterns, resembling nature’s own intricate artwork. Architecture, too, undergoes a metamorphosis, with rooftops and branches heavy with snow, bending under its weight.

It’s a season of quiet marvels and serene beauty, where the environment, like a patient artist, surrenders to the gentle touch of winter, creating a surreal landscape where each element wears the cloak of frost and serenity.

Evoking Emotions and Atmosphere

Emotions are the symphony, and atmosphere the conductor in the grand opera of storytelling.

Just as a maestro’s baton commands the rise and fall of a musical masterpiece, a skilled writer wields their words to evoke emotions and shape the atmosphere within their narrative.

In the realm of words, we can craft a storm of heartache that drenches the reader with empathy or a sunbeam of joy that warms their very soul.

Through masterful storytelling, we can transport readers to the darkened alleyways of fear or the sunlit gardens of love.

Every paragraph becomes an enchanting melody that resonates in the reader’s heart, every word, a brushstroke on the canvas of their imagination.

To paint the palette of emotions and atmosphere is to awaken the dormant spirits within a story, inviting the reader to dance with the characters, breathe the air of foreign lands, and feel the tremors of emotions that pulse with life.

Winter as a time of introspection

Winter serves as an introspective cocoon, where the world retreats into a silent slumber, and our thoughts unfurl like dormant buds waiting for the warmth of spring.

The snow blankets the land in a quiet serenity, creating an almost otherworldly stillness. In these frozen moments, we find solace in self-reflection, as the bare trees and the chill in the air reflect the stripped-down simplicity of our own thoughts.

The world seems to whisper secrets, inviting us to delve into the depths of our inner landscapes. It’s a time when the crackling of a fireplace becomes an accompaniment to our inner musings, and the solitude of the snow-covered landscape mirrors the silent chambers of our hearts.

Winter, in all its stark beauty, is a sanctuary for introspection, a season that beckons us to delve into the frosty recesses of our souls, seeking clarity and renewal.

The feeling of nostalgia

Nostalgia is a bittersweet embrace of the past, a melody that tugs at the heartstrings, often catching us by surprise.

It’s the scent of an old, worn book, the familiar taste of a childhood dish, or the sepia-toned memories of yesteryears.

Nostalgia is a window into the cherished moments and the places we’ve left behind. It transports us to a time when life seemed simpler, or perhaps when we were different people altogether.

It’s a feeling that brings both comfort and a longing ache, like a familiar face in an old photograph, simultaneously grounding us in the past and reminding us of the inexorable march of time.

Nostalgia has the power to make the ordinary extraordinary, for within its embrace, even the most mundane memories become precious, like shards of a shattered mirror that reflect our lives, refracted through the lens of memory.

Weathering the Elements

Weathering the elements is a courageous dance with nature’s most formidable partners, where humanity and the environment engage in an intricate tango of resilience and adaptability.

The elements of wind, rain, snow, and sun become our tempestuous partners, each challenging us to find our balance on the ever-shifting stage of life.

The thrill of a thunderstorm, the serenity of a gentle snowfall, the relentless force of a hurricane—all these natural phenomena are a testament to the awe-inspiring power of the elements.

As we navigate their capricious moods, we discover our own tenacity, drawing strength from the tempests that test our mettle.

In weathering the elements, we become not just observers of nature’s grand performance, but participants in the ongoing drama of survival, resilience, and the enduring human spirit.

The dramatic tension of winter storms

Winter storms are nature’s grand theater productions, where the stage is set with an icy backdrop, and the players are wind, snow, and the restless sky.

There’s a palpable dramatic tension that builds as dark clouds gather, and the air grows heavy with anticipation.

As the first snowflakes descend, it’s as if the opening act has begun, a delicate overture that soon crescendos into a tempestuous symphony of howling winds and swirling snow. Each snowflake is a character in this epic narrative, vying for its place in the swirling plot.

The world becomes a hushed audience, witnessing the turmoil and the magnificence of a winter storm with bated breath.

Amid this turbulent performance, there’s an undeniable exhilaration, a thrilling sense of nature’s raw power and the fragility of our human existence.

Winter storms are both a spectacle and a reminder of the forces that shape our world, a captivating drama that leaves us in awe of the beauty and chaos of the natural world.

Human interaction with winter

Human interaction with winter is a remarkable tapestry of adaptation and celebration, a testament to our indomitable spirit.

In the face of biting cold and relentless snowfall, we don our warmest attire and venture into the frosty embrace of this season.

From the laughter of children building snowmen to the grace of ice skaters on frozen ponds, we seize the opportunity to revel in the unique activities that winter bestows upon us.

Yet, this interaction also bears the weight of responsibility, as we navigate treacherous roads and prepare for the challenges of snow removal.

Winter is a season that demands both reverence and resilience, where the human spirit shines brightly, illuminating the darkest days with our resourcefulness, creativity, and the warmth of community.

The impact of winter on daily life

The impact of winter on daily life is an intricate interplay of challenge and charm, where the world outside transforms into a breathtaking wonderland while our routines undergo adjustments.

The shorter days and longer nights compel us to adapt, embracing the cozy sanctuary of home and the warmth of shared moments with loved ones.

From the practicality of shoveling driveways and navigating icy streets to the joy of curling up by the fireplace with a good book, winter’s influence weaves its way into every facet of our existence.

It calls for extra layers, hot beverages, and the soothing embrace of comfort food.

In these chilly months, we become both the beneficiaries of nature’s artistry and the architects of our own winter stories, each day a new page to be written in the diary of a season where the world slows down, offering us a chance to savor life’s simpler pleasures.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about How To Describe Winter Season In Writing

What is the best way to start a description of the winter season in writing.

Begin by setting the scene. Describe the location and time of day, creating a clear and vivid starting point for your readers.

How can I effectively convey the weather and temperature of winter in my writing?

Use descriptive language to depict the weather conditions and temperature. Words like “snowy,” “icy,” “chilly,” and “freezing” can help paint a clear picture.

What are some key elements of the winter landscape to include in my description?

Mention snow-covered trees, frozen bodies of water, icicles hanging from surfaces, and any other distinctive features of the winter environment in your description.

How can I make my writing about winter more sensory-rich?

Engage the reader’s senses by describing what can be seen, heard, felt, smelled, and even tasted during the winter season. Mention the sounds of snowfall, the feeling of cold air, the scent of evergreen trees, and the taste of seasonal treats.

What emotions and moods should I explore when writing about winter?

Delve into emotions like coziness, wonder, nostalgia, or even the sense of isolation that winter can bring. These emotions can help create a more well-rounded description.

Should I use metaphors and similes when describing winter?

Metaphors and similes can be powerful tools to make your descriptions more vivid. For example, you could liken a snowy landscape to a pristine canvas or a white blanket.

How do I maintain a smooth flow when describing the winter season in writing?

Use transition words and phrases to connect different aspects of your description. This will ensure that your writing flows smoothly from one detail to the next.

What is the best way to conclude a description of the winter season?

In your conclusion, summarize the essence of the winter season and leave the reader with a lasting impression of what makes winter special or unique.

How can I make my description of winter stand out and feel unique?

Focus on the distinctive elements of winter that resonate with you. Highlight what sets this season apart in your eyes, whether it’s the serenity of falling snow or the festive spirit of the holidays.

Any tips for editing and polishing my winter descriptions?

After writing, carefully review your work for clarity, coherence, and conciseness. Eliminate unnecessary words and ensure your descriptions are engaging and captivating for your audience.

In the tapestry of literature, the winter season serves as a remarkable thread, weaving its unique charm into the fabric of storytelling.

As we conclude this exploration of how to describe winter in writing , we are reminded of the enduring power of words to evoke the beauty, complexity, and emotions of this enchanting season.

Through vivid imagery, sensory details, and the exploration of winter’s impact on both the environment and the human experience, we have glimpsed the magic of this time of year.

The icy landscapes, cozy firesides, and moments of introspection have been laid bare through the art of the written word, inviting readers to partake in the wonders of winter.

In the hands of a skilled writer, winter becomes more than just a season—it becomes a canvas upon which stories are painted with the brushstrokes of imagination, where the snowflakes themselves whisper secrets and the chill in the air holds untold mysteries.

The ability to describe winter in writing is a precious gift, allowing us to share the enchantment of this season with the world and to celebrate its enduring allure.

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IELTS Topics: Weather

Posted by David S. Wills | Oct 10, 2019 | IELTS Tips | 0

There are certain topics in the IELTS exam which can be considered quite common. They are not guaranteed to appear in your next exam, but they are common enough that you really should spend some time studying them. One of these super common IELTS topics is weather .

I’m sure that when you first began learning English, you learned to talk about the weather. In my first teaching job, I taught this topic to kindergarten students. Even those cute little 3-year-olds could say, “It’s a sunny day!” or “It is raining.” Of course, for IELTS you need to be able to produce more advanced language than that!

Today, I want to tell you all about weather as a topic for your IELTS test. I’ll explain a little about how it might appear in the exam, and also give you some useful language for describing it.

IELTS Speaking Questions about Weather

The IELTS speaking test is by far the most likely part of the exam to contain questions about weather. This topic could appear in any of the three parts of the speaking test, but it is most likely to occur in part one as the topic is rather shallow. In part one, you aren’t expected to say very much, and so this is the best place for simple questions about things like weather. Here are ten example questions about weather from IELTS speaking part 1:

What’s the weather like where you live?
Does the weather affect your mood?
Do you like sunny days?
What type of weather do you like best?
Does the weather ever affect what you do?
Does it bother you much when it rains?
What do you like to do on sunny days?
Does it rain a lot in your hometown?
Which months have the best weather in your country?
Does rain ever affect transportation in your hometown?

All of those questions are quite simple, factual matters. There is no real complexity to them because they would be asked in part one and you will only be expected to give a basic answer. For example, let’s look at two of the questions from above:

It rains a lot in my hometown, even in the summer. Sometimes it’s sunny but it’s never really very warm.
I really like warm, sunny days the best. When the weather is like that, you can go out and do interesting things rather than being stuck indoors.

You can see that in those answers, I have given only two sentences as a reply. You might think that this is not enough, but actually it is perfectly fine. Notice that I also didn’t use any complex vocabulary. This is also acceptable because for part one the questions really will be simple. You might have a chance to show off more in part three, but don’t worry about it. Sometimes it’s best to use simple language with a high degree of accuracy.

Part two is a little harder to predict, and it’s less likely that you will get a weather question here, but it could still happen. Two cue cards that you might possibly encounter will ask you to do the following:

Describe your favourite kind of weather.
Describe a time when you experienced extreme weather conditions.

In each case, you would need to follow the cue card and give an appropriate response. Here is a video about describing a season, which has some overlap with the topic of weather.

Part three might have questions about weather as well, but remember that here they will be more complex and abstract. In this section, questions often get into morality, gender, age, and other difficult issues. There isn’t really too much that could be said about weather here, but you might find something like the following:

Do you think that weather affects people’s behaviour?

Notice that this is similar to a question from part one, but now we are talking about people in general , rather than your personal opinion. This is much harder to do, and of course here you are expected to speak for longer. You might give an answer like this:

I think that weather definitely affects people’s behaviour. You just have to go outside on a sunny day to see how friendly people are compared to when it’s raining. Also, when the weather is really bad you see people looking depressed and often acting with impatience towards others. People do things like fight over taxis or push rudely past each other when it’s rainy and cold. So, yeah, it definitely has an impact.

This answer is much longer than my first ones, and you can see how each sentence sort of adds a little more to the idea. There is also a basic introduction and conclusion as I tell my listener what I think and then summarize what I said. But is there much difficult weather vocabulary? Not really. There isn’t too much that you can really say in a question like this, as it relates more to a person’s mood than actual weather.

Weather for IELTS Writing

It is less common that you will encounter the topic of weather for IELTS writing, but it could still happen. For one example, you may see weather appear in task 1 as you have to describe patterns of rainfall or hours of sunshine. However, this really wouldn’t require much knowledge of the weather, as you are just expected to describe what you see.

For task 2, there is definitely more scope but the topic of weather is a bit limited. Instead, you would probably see it arise within the greater topic of environment . For example, look at the following question and sample answer. I will highlight some useful vocabulary that may be helpful for you in giving more complex descriptions of weather and the related issue of global warming.

IELTS Writing Task 2 Question: Weather

Global warming is one of the biggest threats to our environment. What causes global warming? What solutions are there to this problem?

Sample Answer

It is clear that the earth’s climate is changing due to human activity. The weather is growing increasingly erratic , and temperatures are soaring in many places. This essay will explore the reasons for this, as well as some possible solutions.

Our modern style of living is causing huge damage to the planet in a number of ways. For one thing, people want constant comfort in their homes, and this means huge amounts of energy must be generated to provide them with electricity, not to mention the production of goods that make them feel happy. As such, power stations and factories around the world ch urn out huge volumes of emissions that go straight into the atmosphere and cause terrible damage. This is compounded by emissions from cars and airplanes, which are also continually rising as the population grows and people become more mobile. Altogether, these cause global warming by changing the earth’s atmosphere and trapping heat .

The problem needs to be dealt with immediately or else there will be no chance of saving the planet later. Governments around the world need to work together to stamp out toxic emissions from factories, power stations, and transportation. Once lowered, these should also be offset by planting more trees to replace carbon dioxide with oxygen. Doing all this will take a massive effort, but it is important that the world is in agreement. Primarily, the responsibility falls on the shoulders of governments, who will need to impose regulations to stop corporations and individuals from perpetrating more destruction upon the environment .

In conclusion, the earth is dying because of human actions, and the whole world will need to act immediately to reverse the damage.

IELTS Reading and Listening Topic: Weather

I don’t really recommend preparing for IELTS reading and listening in terms of topic because actually the topics here are much wider, particularly for reading. In the reading test, you could be given a passage about almost anything, and for listening the final lecture is pretty much the same. Theoretically, any of those could well relate to weather, but you wouldn’t really be expected to know that much about it. Instead, you’d just be expected to have the basic English skills required to pick apart the grammar and main ideas.

Of course, knowing about the weather is useful and you should definitely study it. Reading and listening to English sources like news articles is always helpful and if these are about weather, it may give you a slightly better chance at IELTS listening and reading. (Pro tip: Try watching the weather forecast in English.)

Important Language for Discussing the Weather

As we have seen, most of the questions that are likely to arise in IELTS relating to the topic of weather are actually quite simple, and you wouldn’t need to know complex terminology for the topic. It would be enough to know words like hot, cold, rain, sun, etc. Of course, you also need to know the noun and adjective forms:

Most that is pretty simple, but if you want to impress the examiner a little more, you can try using slightly more specific language. By this, I mean that you don’t just have to say “rain” or “rainy.” It rains a lot in the UK, so we have many words for this type of weather. 😄

We can use other nouns to describe particular kinds of rain:

We can also use an adjective to modify the word “rain”:

Driving rain
Pouring rain
Torrential rain
Freezing rain

We could also use some verbs to talk about how it was raining:

The rain battered down around us.
It was pouring rain all night.
The rain seemed to go right through us.
It just sprinkled down for an hour and then stopped.

You see, it is possible to extend your vocabulary a little from “rain” to using a wider range of language. None of those words or phrases is particularly “advanced” but they all offer a chance to go beyond the most basic and obvious term.

When talking about weather, there are different types of word that we can use. I showed you above that we can vary how we talk about rain by using verbs, adjectives, and nouns. Well, that is possible for some types of weather.

We can say “it is + adjective”:

It is sunny.
It is rainy.

Or “it is a(n) adjective + day”:

It is a sunny day.
It is a rainy day.

We can also say “it is verb+ing”:

It is raining.
It is snowing.

Or we can even use “there +noun”:

There is snow outside.
There will be thunder later.

Some words can be adapted to all forms:

It’s raining! (verb)
It’s rainy! (adjective)
There’s been a lot of rain recently. (noun)

However, others can’t:

It’s sunning!
It’s sunny!
There’s been a lot of sunshine recently.

Here is a PPT I made for my former students. It contains some interesting language about weather. I recommend that you download it and play it on your computer so that you can challenge yourself without seeing the answers first.

I would like to mention here that I have missed out some apparently obvious questions from above. The questions I might have also included were things like, “What’s your favourite season?” Actually, I feel that there is a slight distinction between seasons and weather , and so I will keep this particular article devoted to the latter. If you want to learn how to talk about seasons for IELTS, you can check this link .

It could also be argued that there is some crossover into the topic of climate change and environment because obviously the current phenomenon of global warming is related to the weather. However, I will also leave this aside for now and just focus on more basic weather questions.

About The Author

David S. Wills

David S. Wills is the author of Scientologist! William S. Burroughs and the 'Weird Cult' and the founder/editor of Beatdom literary journal. He lives and works in rural Cambodia and loves to travel. He has worked as an IELTS tutor since 2010, has completed both TEFL and CELTA courses, and has a certificate from Cambridge for Teaching Writing. David has worked in many different countries, and for several years designed a writing course for the University of Worcester. In 2018, he wrote the popular IELTS handbook, Grammar for IELTS Writing and he has since written two other books about IELTS. His other IELTS website is called IELTS Teaching.

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WEATHER Words: Useful Words & Phrases to Describe the Weather in English

WEATHER Words! In this lesson, you will learn useful words & phrases to describe the weather in English.

Table of Contents

WEATHER Words

Rain is drops of water from clouds.
Heavy/ constant/ steady/pouring rain or Downpour is a lot of rain in a short time.
Light / gentle rain or Drizzle means not heavy rain.
Rainfall is the amount of rain which falls.
Deluge is a severe flood.
Rainstorm is a storm with heavy rain.
A drop of rain / a droplet / a raindrop is a single drop of rain.
Rainbow is a curved shape of different colors seen in the sky.
Shower is a short period of rain or snow.

Snow means atmospheric water vapor frozen into ice crystals and falling in light white flakes or lying on the ground as a white layer.

Heavy snow/ deep snow is a great amount of snow.
Light snow means not heavy snow.
Hail is small and hard balls of ice falling from the sky.
Sleet is snow partly melted.
Wet snow means watery snow.
Melting snow means snow turning from the solid state to the liquid state.
Snowfall means a fall of snow.
Snowstorm is a heavy fall of snow, especially with a high wind.
Blizzard is a severe snowstorm with high winds and low visibility.
Frost is the thin, white layer of ice that forms when the air temperature is below the freezing point of water, especially outside at night.
Thaw means snow becoming liquid as a result of warming.
Slippery roads or surface means a surface difficult to hold firmly or stand on because it is smooth, wet, or slimy.
Snowflake is a small piece of snow that falls from the sky.
Snowdrift is a large mass of snow heaped up by the wind.
Snow bank is a large pile of snow.
Ice is the water that has frozen and become solid.
Icicle is a hanging, tapering piece of ice formed by the freezing of dripping water.
Shower is a short period of rain or snow.
Blazing means very bright and hot. Blazing sun/sunshine ( adjective )
Sunshine / Sunlight is the light coming from the sun. ( noun )
Shiny means bright. ( adjective )
Sunrays / Sunbeams are lines of light shining from the sun. ( noun )
Bright means full of light. Bright sun / sunshine ( adjective )
A patch of sunlight means a piece of sunlight. ( noun )
Cloudy means that the sky is completely covered by clouds, no view of blue sky.
Overcast means that There are clouds in the sky, no light and sun.
Gloomy means dark or cloudy in a way that is unpleasant and makes it difficult to see.

Wind is a current of air moving approximately horizontally, especially one strong enough to be felt.

Breeze is a light wind.
Gentle wind is a light wind.
Blustery means the wind blowing strongly.
a gust of wind, a blast of wind, strong wind, high wind
gust and blast means a sudden strong wind.
strong or high wind means hard wind.
light wind means the wind blowing slightly.
Brisk wind means the wind blowing quickly and actively.
Piercing wind means the wind making you fell very cold.
Easterly / Westerly / Northerly / Southerly wind is a wind blowing from the east.
Hurricane / Whirlwind / Tornado is a violent wind that has a circular movement, especially in the West Atlantic Ocean.
Twister is used as a word instead of “tornado” in U.S.
Cyclone is a violent storm, especially in Southern Hemisphere.
Windstorm / Gale is a storm with very strong wind.
Typhoon is a tropical storm, especially in the West Pacific Ocean.
Dust storm is a mass of dust and sand that has been lifted from the ground in very dry areas such as deserts and that is carried by the wind.
Sandstorm is a strong wind in a desert carrying a large amount of sand.
Tropical Storm is a storm forming over tropical oceans.
Hurricane, typhoon, cyclone are the same. However, they have different names because they are in different regions which are mentioned above.
Fog / Haze / Mist is a weather condition in which very small drops of water come together to form a thick cloud close to the land or earth’s surface and it is hard to see.
Thick fog / Dense fog / Heavy Fog means having parts which are close together so that it is difficult to see well.
Patchy fog means fog only existing in some parts.
A blanket of fog means fog covering something completely with a thick layer.
Smog is a fog combined with smoke and other atmospheric pollutants.

Weather Vocabulary | Image

what are 10 wether words

Thanks for these words…It helped me a lot for my class…Wonderful!!

Thanks a lot .it will help me in my class while teaching my students.

Weather Forecast Report Sample Script in English

A weather forecast can be defined as, “ A written or spoken statement describing what the weather has been like recently, what it is like at the moment, or what it will be like for a period in the future. ” or “A daily report of meteorological observations, and of probable changes in the weather; esp. one published by government authority”.

A weather report is a bit technical as compared to other report writing you have been practicing earlier. You need to choose words and phrases correctly and present the information gathered in the language of meteorologists.

Weather report writing has its own format which is precise, to the point, and delivers facts and predictions right on hand. A weather report article or analysis typically includes a statement of current weather conditions along with a weather forecast for the next 24 hours.

Following is the weather forecast report sample script in English which includes important information elements included in a typical weather analysis report:

Also Read: Newscasting Script for The Introduction

Weather Report 1:

Welcome to the weather forecast. Now, let’s see what the weather is like today. In the north of the country, it’s very windy and cold. There is a chance of some rain too, so don’t leave home without your umbrella! The temperature is around 10º centigrade. In the east it’s rainy all day today, I’m afraid. There may be a thunderstorm in the afternoon. The temperature is a bit higher, at around 13º.

In the west and middle of the country, the weather is dry but cloudy. So no rain for you, but it is quite windy and the temperature is just 10º. The south of the country has the best weather today. It’s cloudy most of the time but sunny this afternoon. The temperature is around 15º.

Weather Report 2:

Hi, I’m ____________________________, your weather presenter. I will be covering your local weather in ___________________________, __________________________. The current condition is… Looking ahead, your 3-day forecast consists of… a ___________________ day for Monday. There will be a high of __________________ (weather conditions) (high temp) and a low of ____________________. (low temp) Tuesday, it will be a ____________________ day. There will be a high of ___________________ (weather conditions) (high temp) and a low of ____________________. (low temp) Wednesday will be a ____________________ day. There will be a high of ________________ (weather conditions) (high temp) and a low of ____________________. (low temp) Thursday should be a __________________ day. There will be a high of _________________ (weather conditions) (high temp) and a low of ____________________. (low temp) Friday, we’re looking at a__________________ day. There will be a high of _______________ (weather conditions) (high temp) and a low of ____________________. (low temp) that’s your weather forecast, thanks for watching! I’m _________________________, now back to _______________ and _________________.

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Weather report 3:.

Forecast For Friday 05/18/20XX The maximum temperature today is near 86 degrees. A partly cloudy and warm day is expected. The lowest relative humidity is near 33 percent. Expect 13 hours of sunshine, which is 87 percent of possible sunshine. Average winds will be Northeast at 8 MPH during the morning and Northeast at 9 MPH during the afternoon.

Forecast For Saturday 05/19/20XX The minimum temperature is near 58 degrees. Maximum temperature near 83 degrees. Mostly sunny and dry to start the weekend. The lowest relative humidity is near 30 percent. Expect 15 hours of sunshine, which is 100 percent of possible sunshine. Average winds will be Northeast at 9 MPH during the morning and Northeast at 9 MPH during the afternoon.

Forecast For Sunday 05/20/20XX The minimum temperature is near 58 degrees. Maximum temperature near 85 degrees. A dry weather pattern will continue. The lowest relative humidity is near 30 percent. Expect 15 hours of sunshine, which is 100 percent of possible sunshine. Average winds will be Northeast at 7 MPH during the morning and Northeast at 6 MPH during the afternoon.

Forecast For Monday 05/21/20XX The minimum temperature is near 58 degrees. Maximum temperature near 88 degrees. Isolated showers will be possible afternoon, averaging < 0.10 inches. The lowest relative humidity is near 29 percent. Expect 14 hours of sunshine, which is 93 percent of possible sunshine. Average winds will be Southwest at 3 MPH during the morning and Northwest at 4 MPH during the afternoon.

Forecast For Tuesday 05/22/20XX Minimum temperature near 62 degrees. Maximum temperature near 86 degrees. Slightly greater coverage of showers is forecast, averaging < 0.10 inches. The lowest relative humidity is near 38 percent. Expect 13 hours of sunshine which is 87 percent of possible sunshine. Average winds will be Southwest at 5 MPH during the morning and West at 7 MPH during the afternoon.

Weather Report 4:

Partly cloudy in the evening, becoming cloudy overnight. Low around 55 F. Winds S at 5 to 10 mph Sun may give way to rain for this evening, with a 10 percent chance of precipitation and a low of 50 degrees. Winds are expected to remain calm at 9 mph.

Clear with cloudy periods; a slight chance of showers or thundershowers. Mostly clear with showers likely. Slight chance of a thunderstorm. 3 to 6 mm of rain.

Newscasting Opening and Closing Script Lines

Typical Weather Report Format

The following are the important information elements included in a typical weather analysis report:

Stn: Station ID
Temp: Present temperature (°C)
MinT: Minimum temperature (°C) recorded over the last 18 hours
MaxT: Maximum temperature (°C) recorded over the last 18 hours
RH: Present RH (%)
WndDir: Wind direction
WndSpd: Wind speed (km/h)
WndGust: Wind gust (km/h)
Rain_mm: Rain since the last report (mm)
Snow_cm: Snow since the last report (cm)
Hail_mm: Hail since the last report (mm)
FFMC – Fine Fuel Moisture Code
ISI – Initial Spread Index
DMC – Duff Moisture Code
BUI – Build Up Index
DC – Drought Code
DSR – Daily Severity Rating
FWI – Fire Weather Index

The weather forecast you mention in your report must be for three or seven days. Do not forecast the weather conditions for months because long-term forecasts are less accurate and, therefore, less reliable. The forecast can be made by studying the satellite map or taking the help of meteorologists.

When writing a weather forecast, you need to state the general weather conditions such as sunny, cloudy, rainy, stormy, cloudy, low and high temperature, and weather warnings like tornadoes, flooding, etc.

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Describe Your Favourite Weather: A Guide to Answer Cue Card Topics for the IELTS Speaking Exam

The speaking examination is the second component of the IELTS exams that will test you for your linguistic abilities and capacity to articulate yourself. It’s a speaking test for IELTS. These are conducted face-to-face to assess you by video conference agreements with a specially trained expert in speech and linguistics. A cue card with a topic or subject you’re going to talk about on the spot is given to you.

You need to go through 4 sections of IELTS training to perform well in IELTS: writing, listening, coherent communication, and reading. To complete the entire IELTS test, you are given 2 hours and 45 minutes. Your English speaking abilities are measured in the speech component. Not only does it examine the way you express yourself, but it also depends on some minor points when you answer the contextual issue.

‘Describe Your Favourite Weather’ is one of the few subjects discussed in the cue card themes. Go through it to get better at the IELTS test.

IELTS Cue Card Topics Explained – Describe Your Favourite Weather

These points you can cover-

What’s the weather like?

How does this weather normally happen?

What do you normally do during these environmental conditions?

Explain how you are affected by this weather?

And how can you describe why you like this kind of weather?

Sample Answer – Introduction

Well, the weather is an important aspect of nature as well as, according to their preference and desires, everybody likes and dislikes the weather, however, I always prefer hot weather because I like it a lot that time, I go out with friends and family as well. It usually happens from June to September, but it can occur differently in various types of areas of the nation now due to emissions.

Interestingly, I enjoy hot summer days all the time, and I also like green grass, hot air, and more. I typically do a different style of things in summer, such as hanging out with friends and eating ice cream, as well as consuming cold coffee, soft drinks, and shakes with it. I spend a lot of time with relatives.

In addition, I keep visiting the poolside and waterpark with my dad. The pleasant island is a water park next to my home, where there are a lot of water sports. I typically love water slides, rain dancing, diving, and delicious Chinese food when I go there as well.

Lead to Body and Conclusion of IELTS Cue Card Topic – Describe Your Favourite Weather

Along with that, because I like to wear skirts, swimsuits, shorts and more other summer clothing, I enjoy hot weather. In the summer since there is a holiday week I often stay in the room in the afternoon and listen to rock music and have some healthy snacks.

I don’t like winter temperatures, on the other hand, since I can’t go outside in modern dresses at the time, I can’t eat cold food as well, I don’t like having a thick coat on the clothes as well.

In addition, the time days are too long in summer and I visit other places quickly and I usually visit Chandigarh Sukhna lake and have a lot of fun with friends. These are the key reasons why I prefer hot weather the most.

Also Read : Demand for Oil and Gas is Increasing: A Popular IELTS Essay Topic

Describe Your Favorite Weather Cue Card Topic Sample Answer 2

India is a nation that is complex. Whether there is no summer, freezing in winter, rainy and dry conditions, we experience so many things.

I’d like to speak about the “rainy weather” that I like best, rather than other weather. It normally happens from July to September, but it can now occur differently in various areas of the world due to emissions. The rainy season, also known as the “Monsoon.”

Get into Detail of the Cue Card Topic Sample Answer

It is the time of year when much of the annual rainfall in the area occurs. In this climate, I enjoy myself a lot. Most people have enjoyed some spicy snacks and rainy days in my region. This temperature, apart from it, affects one’s life as kids do not play outdoor games on rainy days, everyone is obliged to visit outdoors. But I love it because I relaxed at home at that point and saw the rainy weather lying on my balcony. In addition, I loved listening to music and loving eating fresh snacks.

On the other hand, I don’t like very hot weather in the summer, but rainy weather relieves me of this hotness. In winter, the temperature in India is too cold and we can’t completely enjoy it. Overall, the perfect time to visit other areas, such as hill stations, is the rainy season. Snowfall weather at some locations in Monsoon and we enjoyed snowfall there.

Also Read : Describe an Interesting Animal Dog: A Cue Card Topic for the IELTS Exam

IELTS Speaking Follow Up Questions for IELTS Preparation

How does the atmosphere (or the weather forecast) impact people’s activities?

Answer: In many respects, the weather impacts people’s activities. The weather has changed quite dramatically day by day in recent years. And that is because, like global warming, the destruction produced by human beings on earth. When there is a prediction of poor weather, people can not go to their jobs.

Why do certain people hate climates of some kind?

Ans: It depends on people’s attitude and decisions. Some individuals want one kind of temperature, and others don’t. Some people enjoy the snow, while others dislike the sun’s scorching heat. Some prefer the season of spring, and others like the season of storms.

Do you think that the weather affects the mood of people?

Ans: Yeah, of course, the weather has a huge effect on the attitude of people. In the summer season, when the air is very hot and dusty winds are blowing, the atmosphere of people gets ruined.

In recent years, how do you feel about the climate?

Ans: I sense a major revolution, like the global alert that changed the region’s atmosphere.

Summers have been dustier in recent years and warmer and colder in winters. The fields have been spoiled by unexpected rainfall. The glaciers could melt due to global warming, and there will be a scenario like floods in India.

Also Read : Describe Your Favourite Clothes Cue Card Topic: IELTS Exam Speaking Test

Tips to Successfully Answer Cue Card Topics

Practice Note Making in a Minute.
Critical is the one minute you get before you start chatting. You ought to understand how this time can be used. To train, you can use the following method:

Emphasize relevant words in each cue in the 2020 IELTS cue card

To build up the argument, write 2-3 keywords against the subject of the cue cards and every cue.

Reading Practice

Practice speaking for a minimum of 3-4 minutes. If you think it’s going to be easy, then your mind tricks you into thinking you’re better than you actually are. For 4 minutes with a stopwatch, try speaking out loud about a subject and you will know how tough it really is.

To listen to your pronunciation and cohesiveness later, capture what you say. Your rhythm would be interrupted if your emotions are dispersed.

Additional Tips for IELTS Exam Preparation

Chat in front of the Mirror

In order to see what the body language conveys, try communicating in front of the mirror.

There is a good justification why the IELTS test is not yet virtual and the reasoning is that the interviewer not only listens to the words you speak, but also tests your comforts.

When anxious, everybody gets a nervous twitch or sweaty hands or makes noisy gulping noises. None of these will happen if you are secure in your ability. You don’t need to know anything, but whatever you do know, you have to be sure. So, smile, relax, and as you mean it, talk.

Stuff You can Stop doing During the IELTS Test

While pause is seen among intellects as a desired virtue, here it is not much preferred. Make them in a chronological manner while you are given time to make notes. You only have to return to the sheet of paper after you’re finished writing to assist you with the rhythm of your voice. Pausing for a long time has led to band score being minimized.

You will have a good understanding of how to treat and answer questions about the IELTS talking cue card in a logical way by now. The more you try to answer these sample questions in the main IELTS test, the more you can do. You can practise a comparable technique for IELTS cue card subjects by keeping an eye on this article. To make it sound more accessible, you can try to create a context for the response to

Check out IELTS ninja for more examples of this nature.

One Comment

Thanks for the information it was very helpful

IELTS Speaking Test Tips and Strategies

Describe Something Important that has been Kept in Your Family: A Cue Card Sample Topic for IELTS Speaking

Describe Your First Day at School: Cue Card Topics Explanation for the IELTS Speaking Exam

Other stories, describe a thing you bought and you are happy about: ielts exam cue card topic, describe a time when you were really close to a wild animal: cue card for ielts speaking exam.

Father daughter storm chasers describe being chased by a deadly tornado

Father daughter storm chasers talk to FOX Weather after narrowly avoiding catastrophe when an EF-4 tornado tore across Oklahoma. They were done chasing and trying to get home when a huge chunk of debris fell from the sky.

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You might see 'gorilla hail' reported in severe storms this spring. Here's what it means

People reported seeing gorilla hail the size of golf balls in march..

Some of the severe storms that have hit the Midwest this spring have brought " gorilla hail " back into conversations about the weather.

Just this week, when thunderstorms ripped through Iowa on Tuesday, spawning a tornado, the system produced large chunks of hail, also known as gorilla hail, which were among the main threats to the state, according to the Des Moines Register , part of the USA TODAY Network.

But once the severe weather threat passes, some people are left wondering about this weather phenomenon.

"Every time I see 'gorilla hail,' I just imagine a gorilla pelting ice balls at people's cars and houses," tweeted one user on X, formerly known as Twitter.

Storm chasers, including Accuweather's Reed Timmer on X, warned that "gorilla hail" and tornadoes posed a severe weather threat Tuesday.

As funny as the term sounds, this kind of hail is no joke. Iowa faced numerous severe storms, large hail, damaging winds and a tornado.

Updates: Tornado watch issued for western, central Iowa through Tuesday night

What is 'gorilla hail'?

"Gorilla hail" is a colloquialism to describe large hail, said Brad Small, a meteorologist for the National Weather Service.

Gorilla-size hail is considered 2 inches in diameter or greater. Severe thunderstorms can produce hail at least the size of a quarter (roughly an inch) or as large as a tennis ball and are accompanied by 58 mph winds or more, according to NWS .

"It's certainly not a technical term we use here," Small said of the phrase.

More: Gov. Reynolds issues disaster proclamation for eight Iowa counties. Here’s what to know

It's not the first report of gorilla hail this year.

In early April, the phenomenon was reported in parts of Oklahoma and Kansas when storms ripped through the area.

Residents said the chunks of ice that pelted the states were nearly the size of softballs. and ranged from 3 to 4 inches.

Alex Sosnowski, a senior meteorologist at AccuWeather, said gorilla hail was given its name because of the potential it has to become so big.

Tips for staying safe during hail and severe weather.

Anyone who finds themselves facing any type of hail storm should stay up to date and monitor the weather.

According to the National Weather Service, folks should do the following to keep themselves and their property safe:

Move vehicles into garages or under carports to prevent damage at a time when safety permits.
Avoid windows and remain on the lowest floor level of the building

Even if the hail is smaller than gorilla hail, it can still shatter windows and send glass and debris into your home. To avoid that, Robert Ndegwa, a State Farm insurance agent, recommends closing windows, blinds and curtains during hail storms to help reduce flying debris.

What is 'gorilla hail'? And why are storm chasers talking about it in Iowa?

You may have heard talk about "gorilla hail" potentially striking Iowa as part of the severe weather expected in the state Tuesday evening.

Storm chasers like Accuweather's Reed Timmer on X, formerly known as Twitter, have warned of "gorilla hail" and tornadoes during the severe weather threat for Tuesday.

As funny as the term sounds, the hail predicted for tonight is no joke. Iowa is at risk of numerous severe storms including large hail, damaging winds and possibly tornadoes from 3 p.m. to 11 p.m. Tuesday.

So what does gorilla hail entail and is it a threat to Iowa?

Updates: Tornado watch issued for western, central Iowa through Tuesday night

What is 'gorilla hail'?

"Gorilla hail" is a colloquialism to describe large hail, said Brad Small, a meteorologist for the National Weather Service.

Gorilla-size hail or large hail is considered 2 inches in diameter or greater. Severe thunderstorms can produce hail at least the size of a quarter (roughly an inch) or as large as a tennis ball and are accompanied by 58 mph winds or more, according to NWS .

"It's certainly not a technical term we use here," Small said of the phrase.

More: Gov. Reynolds issues disaster proclamation for eight Iowa counties. Here’s what to know

Where could 'gorilla hail' occur in Iowa?

Anywhere there is a severe storm threat in Iowa has a chance of getting large hail. Central and western Iowa have the largest risk of severe weather Tuesday. Wind gusts could reach as high as 80 mph, according to NWS .

A tornado watch stretches across roughly the lower half of counties in Iowa from the western border through the Des Moines metro area.

"That potential threat could be large hail and damaging winds," Small said. "There could be tornadoes but that is not the primary threat we expect."

Tips for staying safe during hail and severe weather.

Anyone with outdoor activities on Tuesday should monitor the severe weather. Move vehicles into garages or under carports to prevent damage at a time when safety permits. Try to avoid windows and remain on the lowest floor level of the building, according to NWS . Storms have started around the state and stronger weather is expected in the evening, Small said.

You "definitely want to be weather-aware if you are going to be out and about this evening," Small said. "Even if you are not, large hail can certainly do damage to your car and home. And there are wind gusts at 60 to 70 miles an hour as well. So it could be a very active severe weather afternoon and evening."

You should close windows, blinds and curtains during hail storms, recommends State Farm insurance agent Robert Ndegwa. Even hail smaller than "gorilla hail" can shatter windows and send glass and debris into your home. Closing window coverings can help reduce flying debris.

Kate Kealey is a general assignment reporter for the Register. Reach her at [email protected] or follow her on Twitter at @ Kkealey17 .

Opinion Can the world really engineer its way out of climate change?

It was reckless of the Editorial Board to describe large-scale manipulation of the Earth’s climate systems as “cheap and potentially game-changing.” Moreover, the sort of diplomacy the editorial called for is occurring; it just isn’t producing the results The Post prefers.

The Editorial Board criticized the failure to adopt a Swiss proposal at a recent United Nations Environment Assembly. However, the board failed to note that at the same meeting, 54 African countries, with the support of Colombia and other Global South countries, called for a mechanism to ensure that solar geoengineering would not be used. Their objections include concerns that the continent could be used as an experimental zone whose people and lands are harmed first and worst, and worries that such mitigation efforts are just an excuse for wealthy countries to continue consuming in the same damaging ways, and at the same rate.

This echoes the call by more than 450 scholars for an International Non-Use Agreement on Solar Geoengineering , which notes the unacceptable risk posed by solar geoengineering and the impossibility of fair and effective governance in our current world order. These unproven technologies carry incredibly dangerous risks, among them altering weather patterns across the globe with unknown impacts to ecosystems and biodiversity. Agricultural patterns could be upended, threatening food and water supplies for many millions.

Geoengineering is the ultimate dangerous distraction from bringing about what is unambiguously necessary: a just and equitable fossil fuel phaseout. Our governments don’t need to regulate solar geoengineering. For the sake of a truly sustainable future, they need to permanently ban it.

Benjamin Day , Boston

The writer is a senior campaigner with Friends of the Earth’s climate and energy justice team.

I found the April 28 editorial, “ Who gets to decide to re-engineer the weather? ,” somewhat troubling. Sending sulfur up into the air could increase the possibility of acid rain and harm to plants that remove carbon dioxide and feed people. But we do need creative solutions for managing extreme weather.

Some years ago, I sent an idea to NASA about releasing a test dose of biodegradable iron particles into the atmosphere. These would concentrate near Earth’s magnetic poles to protect the ice caps yet allow solar rays to help crops and forests to grow in temperate and tropical zones along the equator. I never heard back, which reflects domestic inertia, not only the lack of international effort mentioned in the editorial. We need an open forum of ideas, supported by carbon taxes, as it seems today’s world is headed toward the disastrous solution of nuclear winter.

Henry Chang , Bethesda

One word: Plastics

Regarding Eve O. Schaub’s April 23 Tuesday Opinion essay, “ How to celebrate Earth Day? Just dump this toxic stuff. ”:

What a disheartening piece on the futility of plastic recycling. I’m not saying it’s incorrect, just sad.

This is not the first time I’ve heard that recycling plastic might be ineffective. Opinions seem to range from the argument that recycling plastic is well-intentioned but useless, to suggestions that the process is pure hype for marketing purposes (so-called greenwashing). Yet my recycle bin overfloweth!

Given this situation, reducing plastic use is critical, and I suggest a good target is packaging. The amount of entirely unnecessary plastic bags, wraps, ties and fillers that come with every consumer item is staggering. In my experience, Apple is a huge abuser in this regard, with even a simple USB cable packed as though it’s a Christmas gift going to the moon. Another example everyone encounters is bedding that comes in sturdy plastic zipper cases. They might look cute lined up on store shelves, but the case could easily be replaced with cloth or cardboard. Take your own inventory; across every type of product and use, excessive plastic packaging is a scourge on the environment and our health.

Of course, a major change would affect the plastics and packaging industries, the workers they employ and the whole supply chain. Somehow we must take that into account as we move toward environmentally friendly solutions.

Eric Wenocur , Olney

Eve O. Schaub’s argument that recycling plastic is a waste of time took a zero-sum approach to an issue that is complicated — and continually improving.

“Plastics” is a broad category of materials with differing chemical compositions and mechanical properties, all of which affect potential recyclability. That is why the recycling rates for different plastic resin types vary significantly, and why the average recycling rate for plastics is low despite some categories of plastics having high recycling rates.

Over the past several years, the recycled-materials industry has made significant investments in technology, education and partnerships to improve plastics recycling rates, and we are seeing improvements as a result for certain resins.

According to the U.S. Plastic Recycling Study , in 2022, more than 5 billion pounds of post-consumer plastic were recovered for recycling (though that figure does represent a slight decline in volume from the previous two years). More than 95 percent of recovered bottles stayed in North America to be remanufactured into new products.

There is still a long way to go, but manufacturers are increasing the use of recycled content and making products that are easier to recycle. They are recognizing the societal value and the demand from their customer base. My organization, for example, is working closely with Colgate-Palmolive, Starbucks and others to address product recyclability and find ways to strengthen recycling across all material categories.

Making a real difference will require a broad commitment from consumers, manufacturers, scientists, engineers and policymakers. This effort is worth everyone’s time.

Robin Wiener , Washington

The writer is president of the Recycled Materials Association.

Regarding the April 26 news article “ Massive volunteer-aided study reveals biggest known plastic polluters ”:

I was disappointed to read that U.S. negotiators at international meetings concerning plastic pollution have been resistant to an agreement that would limit plastic production.

I was a child in the 1940s, and I remember the milkman delivering milk in glass bottles to our house and retrieving the empty bottles for reuse. It was common practice. I drank my share of soft drinks then, but always from glass bottles. We have tried a plastic recycling approach for many decades, and it is apparent this is not working from an environmental perspective. It is time to phase back into the approach that was better for the environment by putting the emphasis on using, and reusing, glass. And if the glass cannot be reused, it can be recycled with a better outcome than trying to recycle plastic.

Robert F. Benson , Silver Spring

Bring back the birds

Regarding Dana Milbank’s April 28 Sunday Opinion essay, “ This tiny flower teaches us all we need to know about growing old ”:

I enjoy reading about Mr. Milbank’s adventures on his new homestead in Virginia’s Piedmont region. This essay about native wildflowers and tree planting was wonderful.

As an avid birdwatcher, I spent more than 20 years in Northern Virginia watching a lot of great habitat being bulldozed and turned into five-acre “estates," a fancy term for a fairly good-sized house with a lawn that was usually mowed down to the nubbin. One maple tree or dogwood would pass for landscaping. Often, streets in these neighborhoods would be named for the birds that used to live there but that no longer had places to nest and feed: Cardinal Court, Bluebird Lane, etc.

I hope Mr. Milbank’s essay will inspire more homeowners to plant trees and wildflowers that are native instead of invasives such as Bradford pears, which are illegal in a growing number of states. This change could do wonders for all the birds that are under threat from increased development.

Rich Rieger , Schuylkill Haven, Pa.

Good for the EPA

Regarding the April 26 Economy & Business article “ EPA rules would slash pollution from power plants ”:

The Environmental Protection Agency’s new rules limiting coal-fired power-plant emissions will ensure that the United States remains competitive in the renewable-energy economy as well as protect human health and all life. The power industry and its friends have protested that the new rules will be “unrealistic” and “unachievable” and don’t allow enough time to comply. But this argument ignores the fact that the industry has dragged its feet in reducing emissions in the 15 years since the EPA labeled greenhouse gases a health hazard.

Moreover, the power and fossil-fuel industries have both wasted decades of precious time since scientists concluded fossil fuel emissions drive climate change. Given the “pro-life” Republican Party’s opposition to alleviating this threat to life, the outcome of November’s election could very well determine whether power plants will finally clean up their acts — or climate change will be “baked in” to our future.

Michael Wright , Glen Rock, Pa.

About letters to the editor

The Post welcomes letters to the editor on any subject, especially those that expand upon the ideas raised by published pieces and those that raise valuable questions about The Post’s practices and choices. Letters should run no more than 400 words, be submitted only to the Post and must be published under your real name. Submit a letter .

Opinion | Can the world really engineer its way out of climate change? Just now Opinion | Can the world really engineer its way out of climate change? Just now
Opinion | The sky-high stakes of the Maryland Senate race April 30, 2024 Opinion | The sky-high stakes of the Maryland Senate race April 30, 2024
Opinion | The answer to clean energy is blowin’ in the wind — and brewing in reactors April 29, 2024 Opinion | The answer to clean energy is blowin’ in the wind — and brewing in reactors April 29, 2024

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Arizona Lawmakers Repeal 1864 Abortion Ban, Creating Rift on the Right

Two Republican state senators broke with their party to ensure final passage of the repeal. Gov. Katie Hobbs, a Democrat, is expected to sign it on Thursday.

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A view from between rows of desks in a legislative chamber toward a raised visitors’ gallery, in which the seats are filled with people.

By Jack Healy and Elizabeth Dias

Jack Healy reported from inside the State Capitol in Phoenix, and Elizabeth Dias reported from Washington, D.C.

Arizona lawmakers voted on Wednesday to repeal an abortion ban that first became law when Abraham Lincoln was president and a half-century before women won the right to vote.

A bill to repeal the law passed, 16-14, in the Republican-controlled State Senate with the support of every Democratic senator and two Republicans who broke with anti-abortion conservatives who dominate their party. It now goes to Gov. Katie Hobbs, a Democrat, who is expected to sign it on Thursday.

The vote was the culmination of a fevered effort to repeal the law that has made abortion a central focus of Arizona’s politics.

“We are standing in a moment of Arizona history,” said State Senator Anna Hernandez, a Democrat who called the repeal measure up to a vote on Wednesday.

The issue has galvanized Democratic voters and energized a campaign to put an abortion-rights ballot measure before Arizona voters in November. On the right, it created a rift between anti-abortion activists who want to keep the law in place and Republican politicians who worry about the political backlash that could be prompted by support of a near-total abortion ban with no exceptions for rape or incest.

The 1864 law had gathered dust on the books for decades. But it exploded into an election-year flashpoint three weeks ago when a 4-2 decision by the State Supreme Court, whose justices are all Republican-appointed, said the ban could now be enforced because of the overturning of Roe v. Wade.

After the repeal is finalized, abortions in Arizona will be governed by a 2022 law that prohibits the procedure after 15 weeks of pregnancy, and makes no exception for rape or incest.

But the repeal will not take effect until 90 days after the Legislature adjourns for the summer, meaning that the 1864 ban could still end up temporarily derailing abortion access in Arizona if a court allows it to go into effect. Arizona’s Democratic attorney general and Planned Parenthood Arizona have gone to court to keep the law from being implemented.

Two Republican state senators, T.J. Shope and Shawnna Bolick, joined with Democrats on Wednesday to force that repeal bill to a vote over furious attempts by far-right Republicans to block it.

Before casting her pivotal vote, Ms. Bolick stood up and began a long, deeply personal speech describing her own three challenging pregnancies, including one that ended with an abortion procedure in her first trimester because the fetus was not viable.

“Would Arizona’s pre-Roe law have allowed me to have this medical procedure even though my life wasn’t in danger?” she asked.

But Ms. Bolick, whose husband is one of the Arizona Supreme Court justices who upheld the 1864 law, also railed against Planned Parenthood and Democratic support for abortion rights. She suggested that her vote to repeal the 1864 ban could be the best shot for conservatives to thwart the abortion ballot measure.

“We should be pushing for the maximum protection for unborn children that can be sustained,” she said. “I side with saving more babies’ lives.”

As she spoke, abortion opponents watching from the public gallery erupted with angry shouts: “Come on!” “This is a disgrace!” “One day you will face a just and holy God!”

The repeal was a significant loss for the anti-abortion movement, which had relied on its outsized strength in the Arizona Legislature , The vote came hours after conservatives celebrated a six-week abortion ban that went into effect in Florida on Wednesday morning. The repeal leaves Republican lawmakers divided about whether to place their own more restrictive abortion measure on the ballot in November to compete with the constitutional amendment supported by abortion-rights groups.

Conservative activists had worked for years to elect and support anti-abortion proponents to the Legislature, enabling them to stand firm against outside pressure. But the narrow loss showed that they are vulnerable even in the places where they have built some of their greatest power, as their national political influence weakens.

Several anti-abortion Republican lawmakers made fiery speeches that framed the vote in spiritual terms. They equated abortions to Naziism and compared the repeal with the Sept. 11 attacks. They read graphic descriptions of later-term abortions. They quoted the Bible and made direct appeals to God from the Senate floor.

Some saw the repeal not simply as a rejection of anti-abortion principles, but an explicit rejection of Christianity.

Two choked up. Senator J.D. Mesnard, who represents a suburban swing district, held up his phone and played a sonogram recording of his daughter’s heartbeat.

“If I vote yes, these will be fewer, these heart beatings,” he said.

State Senator Anthony Kern, a Republican who was also among Arizona’s fake electors indicted last week in an election-conspiracy case, said the Senate was betraying its opposition to abortion, and predicted that the vote would pave the way for acceptance of pedophilia.

“This is innocent blood,” he said. “Why can’t we show the nation we are pro-life? We will have the blessing of God over this state if we do that. Our only hope is Jesus Christ.”

Democrats, for their part, mostly stayed silent or made brief statements supporting repeal.

After the repeal passed, State Senator Eva Burch, a Democrat, called it “one step in the right direction” and quickly pivoted to focus on the coming fight over the abortion ballot measure.

Ms. Burch became a particularly visible face of the abortion-rights movement in Arizona this year after she made an emotional floor speech to announce she needed an abortion to end a nonviable pregnancy. She criticized the two Republican defectors for their past votes on abortion issues but said, “They stood with us,” to overturn the 1864 ban.

“I’m grateful for that,” she said.

Legislators had tried twice to force a repeal bill to a vote in the Republican-controlled state Legislature, only to be blocked by conservative lawmakers. In tense scenes inside the State Capitol, Democratic lawmakers shouted “Shame!” at Republicans, and anti-abortion activists filled the chambers with prayers to uphold the law.

Then last week, three Republican members of the House joined with every Democrat in the chamber and voted to repeal the 1864 ban, sending it to the Senate for final approval.

Before the vote on Wednesday, anti-abortion activists gathered outside the Capitol in a last-ditch effort to urge lawmakers to reconsider. They prayed under a tree, read scripture over a loudspeaker and argued with abortion rights supporters.

Amirrah Coronado, 17, took the morning off from her high school classes, put on a light pink T-shirt and drove to the Capitol with her mother and siblings to support the repeal effort. As she walked toward the sun-splashed plaza, a woman yelled at her, “Abortion is murder!”

“I know how to speak,” Ms. Coronado said as an anti-abortion activist made a case that Arizona needed stricter abortion laws. “This law — it’s from when slavery was here.”

In another corner of the plaza, Marisol Olivia Valenzuela faced off with a cluster of anti-abortion demonstrators from Apologia Church, a Phoenix congregation that supports so-called “abortion abolition” that would criminalize abortion from conception as homicide.

“It’s murder,” Charlie Casteel, 16, told Ms. Olivia Valenzuela. She was not having it.

“You’re standing here as a male, but you will never have to make that decision,” she said. “I am totally pro-life, but why can’t we meet in the middle? Government shouldn’t govern our bodies. Government has nothing to do with this.”

After the Senate vote, Representative Nancy Gutierrez, a Democrat and the House minority whip, said she was excited that they “finally” got the bill to the governor’s desk. “It will absolutely save lives,” she said. “However, we are not finished. We still have an initiative to get on the November ballot that will codify abortion access in our Arizona Constitution.”

Ada Martin, 55, who owns her own educational consulting company and is on the board of Planned Parenthood Advocates of Arizona, heard the news of the repeal as she was celebrating her birthday. It was a positive development, she said, but noted the three-month lag time in which the ban could be in effect.

Passing the ballot measure in November is still her primary goal, she said.

“People tend to have a perception about abortion, but as far as I am concerned abortion is health care, and the communities that are most adversely affected, regardless of religious influence, are communities of color,” she said. “I am just worried about the ability for those individuals to make choices about their bodies.”

Jack Healy is a Phoenix-based national correspondent who focuses on the fast-changing politics and climate of the Southwest. He has worked in Iraq and Afghanistan and is a graduate of the University of Missouri’s journalism school. More about Jack Healy

Elizabeth Dias is The Times’s national religion correspondent, covering faith, politics and values. More about Elizabeth Dias

Watch CBS News

Uri Berliner, NPR editor who criticized the network of liberal bias, says he's resigning

By Aimee Picchi

Edited By Anne Marie Lee

April 17, 2024 / 12:21 PM EDT / CBS News

Uri Berliner, a senior editor at National Public Radio who had been suspended from his job after claiming the network had "lost America's trust" by pushing progressive views while suppressing dissenting opinions, said he is resigning from the broadcaster.

"I am resigning from NPR, a great American institution where I have worked for 25 years," Berliner wrote in his resignation letter to NPR CEO Katherine Maher, and which he posted in part on X, the former Twitter. "I cannot work in a newsroom where I am disparaged by a new CEO whose divisive views confirm the very problems at NPR I cite in my Free Press essay."

My resignation letter to NPR CEO @krmaher pic.twitter.com/0hafVbcZAK — Uri Berliner (@uberliner) April 17, 2024

Berliner's resignation comes eight days after he published an essay in the Free Press that caused a firestorm of debate with his allegations that NPR was suppressing dissenting voices. In response to his critique, some conservatives, including former President Donald Trump, called on the government to "defund" the organization.

Maher, who became NPR's CEO in March, wrote a staff memo a few days after publication of Berliner's essay addressing his criticisms of the organization's editorial process. Among Berliner's claims are that NPR is failing to consider other viewpoints and that it is fixated on diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives.

"Questioning whether our people are serving our mission with integrity, based on little more than the recognition of their identity, is profoundly disrespectful, hurtful and demeaning," Maher wrote.

Some of Berliner's NPR colleagues also took issue with the essay, with "Morning Edition" host Steve Inskeep writing on his Substack that the article was "filled with errors and omissions."

"The errors do make NPR look bad, because it's embarrassing that an NPR journalist would make so many," Inskeep wrote.

Berliner's suspension, which occurred Friday, was reported by NPR media correspondent David Folkenflik. NPR declined to comment to CBS News about Berliner's resignation. "NPR does not comment on individual personnel matters," a spokesperson said.

Aimee Picchi is the associate managing editor for CBS MoneyWatch, where she covers business and personal finance. She previously worked at Bloomberg News and has written for national news outlets including USA Today and Consumer Reports.

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What It Means To Be Asian in America

The lived experiences and perspectives of asian americans in their own words.

Asians are the fastest growing racial and ethnic group in the United States. More than 24 million Americans in the U.S. trace their roots to more than 20 countries in East and Southeast Asia and the Indian subcontinent.

The majority of Asian Americans are immigrants, coming to understand what they left behind and building their lives in the United States. At the same time, there is a fast growing, U.S.-born generation of Asian Americans who are navigating their own connections to familial heritage and their own experiences growing up in the U.S.

In a new Pew Research Center analysis based on dozens of focus groups, Asian American participants described the challenges of navigating their own identity in a nation where the label “Asian” brings expectations about their origins, behavior and physical self. Read on to see, in their own words, what it means to be Asian in America.

Introduction

This is how i view my identity, this is how others see and treat me, this is what it means to be home in america, about this project, methodological note, acknowledgments.

No single experience defines what it means to be Asian in the United States today. Instead, Asian Americans’ lived experiences are in part shaped by where they were born, how connected they are to their family’s ethnic origins, and how others – both Asians and non-Asians – see and engage with them in their daily lives. Yet despite diverse experiences, backgrounds and origins, shared experiences and common themes emerged when we asked: “What does it mean to be Asian in America?”

In the fall of 2021, Pew Research Center undertook the largest focus group study it had ever conducted – 66 focus groups with 264 total participants – to hear Asian Americans talk about their lived experiences in America. The focus groups were organized into 18 distinct Asian ethnic origin groups, fielded in 18 languages and moderated by members of their own ethnic groups. Because of the pandemic, the focus groups were conducted virtually, allowing us to recruit participants from all parts of the United States. This approach allowed us to hear a diverse set of voices – especially from less populous Asian ethnic groups whose views, attitudes and opinions are seldom presented in traditional polling. The approach also allowed us to explore the reasons behind people’s opinions and choices about what it means to belong in America, beyond the preset response options of a traditional survey.

The terms “Asian,” “Asians living in the United States” and “Asian American” are used interchangeably throughout this essay to refer to U.S. adults who self-identify as Asian, either alone or in combination with other races or Hispanic identity.

“The United States” and “the U.S.” are used interchangeably with “America” for variations in the writing.

Multiracial participants are those who indicate they are of two or more racial backgrounds (one of which is Asian). Multiethnic participants are those who indicate they are of two or more ethnicities, including those identified as Asian with Hispanic background.

U.S. born refers to people born in the 50 U.S. states or the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, or other U.S. territories.

Immigrant refers to people who were not U.S. citizens at birth – in other words, those born outside the U.S., Puerto Rico or other U.S. territories to parents who were not U.S. citizens. The terms “immigrant,” “first generation” and “foreign born” are used interchangeably in this report.

Second generation refers to people born in the 50 states or the District of Columbia with at least one first-generation, or immigrant, parent.

The pan-ethnic term “Asian American” describes the population of about 22 million people living in the United States who trace their roots to more than 20 countries in East and Southeast Asia and the Indian subcontinent. The term was popularized by U.S. student activists in the 1960s and was eventually adopted by the U.S. Census Bureau. However, the “Asian” label masks the diverse demographics and wide economic disparities across the largest national origin groups (such as Chinese, Indian, Filipino) and the less populous ones (such as Bhutanese, Hmong and Nepalese) living in America. It also hides the varied circumstances of groups immigrated to the U.S. and how they started their lives there. The population’s diversity often presents challenges . Conventional survey methods typically reflect the voices of larger groups without fully capturing the broad range of views, attitudes, life starting points and perspectives experienced by Asian Americans. They can also limit understanding of the shared experiences across this diverse population.

A chart listing the 18 ethnic origins included in Pew Research Center's 66 focus groups, and the composition of the focus groups by income and birth place.

Across all focus groups, some common findings emerged. Participants highlighted how the pan-ethnic “Asian” label used in the U.S. represented only one part of how they think of themselves. For example, recently arrived Asian immigrant participants told us they are drawn more to their ethnic identity than to the more general, U.S.-created pan-ethnic Asian American identity. Meanwhile, U.S.-born Asian participants shared how they identified, at times, as Asian but also, at other times, by their ethnic origin and as Americans.

Another common finding among focus group participants is the disconnect they noted between how they see themselves and how others view them. Sometimes this led to maltreatment of them or their families, especially at heightened moments in American history such as during Japanese incarceration during World War II, the aftermath of 9/11 and, more recently, the COVID-19 pandemic. Beyond these specific moments, many in the focus groups offered their own experiences that had revealed other people’s assumptions or misconceptions about their identity.

Another shared finding is the multiple ways in which participants take and express pride in their cultural and ethnic backgrounds while also feeling at home in America, celebrating and blending their unique cultural traditions and practices with those of other Americans.

This focus group project is part of a broader research agenda about Asians living in the United States. The findings presented here offer a small glimpse of what participants told us, in their own words, about how they identify themselves, how others see and treat them, and more generally, what it means to be Asian in America.

Illustrations by Jing Li

Publications from the Being Asian in America project

Read the data essay: What It Means to Be Asian in America
Watch the documentary: Being Asian in America
Explore the interactive: In Their Own Words: The Diverse Perspectives of Being Asian in America
View expanded interviews: Extended Interviews: Being Asian in America
About this research project: More on the Being Asian in America project
Q&A: Why and how Pew Research Center conducted 66 focus groups with Asian Americans

One of the topics covered in each focus group was how participants viewed their own racial or ethnic identity. Moderators asked them how they viewed themselves, and what experiences informed their views about their identity. These discussions not only highlighted differences in how participants thought about their own racial or ethnic background, but they also revealed how different settings can influence how they would choose to identify themselves. Across all focus groups, the general theme emerged that being Asian was only one part of how participants viewed themselves.

The pan-ethnic label ‘Asian’ is often used more in formal settings

“I think when I think of the Asian Americans, I think that we’re all unique and different. We come from different cultures and backgrounds. We come from unique stories, not just as a group, but just as individual humans.” Mali , documentary participant

Many participants described a complicated relationship with the pan-ethnic labels “Asian” or “Asian American.” For some, using the term was less of an active choice and more of an imposed one, with participants discussing the disconnect between how they would like to identify themselves and the available choices often found in formal settings. For example, an immigrant Pakistani woman remarked how she typically sees “Asian American” on forms, but not more specific options. Similarly, an immigrant Burmese woman described her experience of applying for jobs and having to identify as “Asian,” as opposed to identifying by her ethnic background, because no other options were available. These experiences highlight the challenges organizations like government agencies and employers have in developing surveys or forms that ask respondents about their identity. A common sentiment is one like this:

“I guess … I feel like I just kind of check off ‘Asian’ [for] an application or the test forms. That’s the only time I would identify as Asian. But Asian is too broad. Asia is a big continent. Yeah, I feel like it’s just too broad. To specify things, you’re Taiwanese American, that’s exactly where you came from.”

–U.S.-born woman of Taiwanese origin in early 20s

Smaller ethnic groups default to ‘Asian’ since their groups are less recognizable

Other participants shared how their experiences in explaining the geographic location and culture of their origin country led them to prefer “Asian” when talking about themselves with others. This theme was especially prominent among those belonging to smaller origin groups such as Bangladeshis and Bhutanese. A Lao participant remarked she would initially say “Asian American” because people might not be familiar with “Lao.”

“[When I fill out] forms, I select ‘Asian American,’ and that’s why I consider myself as an Asian American. [It is difficult to identify as] Nepali American [since] there are no such options in forms. That’s why, Asian American is fine to me.”

–Immigrant woman of Nepalese origin in late 20s

“Coming to a big country like [the United States], when people ask where we are from … there are some people who have no idea about Bhutan, so we end up introducing ourselves as being Asian.”

–Immigrant woman of Bhutanese origin in late 40s

But for many, ‘Asian’ as a label or identity just doesn’t fit

Many participants felt that neither “Asian” nor “Asian American” truly captures how they view themselves and their identity. They argue that these labels are too broad or too ambiguous, as there are so many different groups included within these labels. For example, a U.S.-born Pakistani man remarked on how “Asian” lumps many groups together – that the term is not limited to South Asian groups such as Indian and Pakistani, but also includes East Asian groups. Similarly, an immigrant Nepalese man described how “Asian” often means Chinese for many Americans. A Filipino woman summed it up this way:

“Now I consider myself to be both Filipino and Asian American, but growing up in [Southern California] … I didn’t start to identify as Asian American until college because in [the Los Angeles suburb where I lived], it’s a big mix of everything – Black, Latino, Pacific Islander and Asian … when I would go into spaces where there were a lot of other Asians, especially East Asians, I didn’t feel like I belonged. … In media, right, like people still associate Asian with being East Asian.”

–U.S.-born woman of Filipino origin in mid-20s

Participants also noted they have encountered confusion or the tendency for others to view Asian Americans as people from mostly East Asian countries, such as China, Japan and Korea. For some, this confusion even extends to interactions with other Asian American groups. A Pakistani man remarked on how he rarely finds Pakistani or Indian brands when he visits Asian stores. Instead, he recalled mostly finding Vietnamese, Korean and Chinese items.

Among participants of South Asian descent, some identified with the label “South Asian” more than just “Asian.” There were other nuances, too, when it comes to the labels people choose. Some Indian participants, for example, said people sometimes group them with Native Americans who are also referred to as Indians in the United States. This Indian woman shared her experience at school:

“I love South Asian or ‘Desi’ only because up until recently … it’s fairly new to say South Asian. I’ve always said ‘Desi’ because growing up … I’ve had to say I’m the red dot Indian, not the feather Indian. So annoying, you know? … Always a distinction that I’ve had to make.”

–U.S.-born woman of Indian origin in late 20s

Participants with multiethnic or multiracial backgrounds described their own unique experiences with their identity. Rather than choosing one racial or ethnic group over the other, some participants described identifying with both groups, since this more accurately describes how they see themselves. In some cases, this choice reflected the history of the Asian diaspora. For example, an immigrant Cambodian man described being both Khmer/Cambodian and Chinese, since his grandparents came from China. Some other participants recalled going through an “identity crisis” as they navigated between multiple identities. As one woman explained:

“I would say I went through an identity crisis. … It’s because of being multicultural. … There’s also French in the mix within my family, too. Because I don’t identify, speak or understand the language, I really can’t connect to the French roots … I’m in between like Cambodian and Thai, and then Chinese and then French … I finally lumped it up. I’m just an Asian American and proud of all my roots.”

–U.S.-born woman of Cambodian origin in mid-30s

In other cases, the choice reflected U.S. patterns of intermarriage. Asian newlyweds have the highest intermarriage rate of any racial or ethnic group in the country. One Japanese-origin man with Hispanic roots noted:

“So I would like to see myself as a Hispanic Asian American. I want to say Hispanic first because I have more of my mom’s culture in me than my dad’s culture. In fact, I actually have more American culture than my dad’s culture for what I do normally. So I guess, Hispanic American Asian.”

–U.S.-born man of Hispanic and Japanese origin in early 40s

Other identities beyond race or ethnicity are also important

Focus group participants also talked about their identity beyond the racial or ethnic dimension. For example, one Chinese woman noted that the best term to describe her would be “immigrant.” Faith and religious ties were also important to some. One immigrant participant talked about his love of Pakistani values and how religion is intermingled into Pakistani culture. Another woman explained:

“[Japanese language and culture] are very important to me and ingrained in me because they were always part of my life, and I felt them when I was growing up. Even the word itadakimasu reflects Japanese culture or the tradition. Shinto religion is a part of the culture. They are part of my identity, and they are very important to me.”

–Immigrant woman of Japanese origin in mid-30s

For some, gender is another important aspect of identity. One Korean participant emphasized that being a woman is an important part of her identity. For others, sexual orientation is an essential part of their overall identity. One U.S.-born Filipino participant described herself as “queer Asian American.” Another participant put it this way:

“I belong to the [LGBTQ] community … before, what we only know is gay and lesbian. We don’t know about being queer, nonbinary. [Here], my horizon of knowing what genders and gender roles is also expanded … in the Philippines, if you’ll be with same sex, you’re considered gay or lesbian. But here … what’s happening is so broad, on how you identify yourself.”

–Immigrant woman of Filipino origin in early 20s

Immigrant identity is tied to their ethnic heritage

A chart showing how participants in the focus groups described the differences between race-centered and ethnicity-centered identities.

Participants born outside the United States tended to link their identity with their ethnic heritage. Some felt strongly connected with their ethnic ties due to their citizenship status. For others, the lack of permanent residency or citizenship meant they have stronger ties to their ethnicity and birthplace. And in some cases, participants said they held on to their ethnic identity even after they became U.S. citizens. One woman emphasized that she will always be Taiwanese because she was born there, despite now living in the U.S.

For other participants, family origin played a central role in their identity, regardless of their status in the U.S. According to some of them, this attitude was heavily influenced by their memories and experiences in early childhood when they were still living in their countries of origin. These influences are so profound that even after decades of living in the U.S., some still feel the strong connection to their ethnic roots. And those with U.S.-born children talked about sending their kids to special educational programs in the U.S. to learn about their ethnic heritage.

“Yes, as for me, I hold that I am Khmer because our nationality cannot be deleted, our identity is Khmer as I hold that I am Khmer … so I try, even [with] my children today, I try to learn Khmer through Zoom through the so-called Khmer Parent Association.”

–Immigrant man of Cambodian origin in late 50s

Navigating life in America is an adjustment

Many participants pointed to cultural differences they have noticed between their ethnic culture and U.S. culture. One of the most distinct differences is in food. For some participants, their strong attachment to the unique dishes of their families and their countries of origin helps them maintain strong ties to their ethnic identity. One Sri Lankan participant shared that her roots are still in Sri Lanka, since she still follows Sri Lankan traditions in the U.S. such as preparing kiribath (rice with coconut milk) and celebrating Ramadan.

For other participants, interactions in social settings with those outside their own ethnic group circles highlighted cultural differences. One Bangladeshi woman talked about how Bengalis share personal stories and challenges with each other, while others in the U.S. like to have “small talk” about TV series or clothes.

Many immigrants in the focus groups have found it is easier to socialize when they are around others belonging to their ethnicity. When interacting with others who don’t share the same ethnicity, participants noted they must be more self-aware about cultural differences to avoid making mistakes in social interactions. Here, participants described the importance of learning to “fit in,” to avoid feeling left out or excluded. One Korean woman said:

“Every time I go to a party, I feel unwelcome. … In Korea, when I invite guests to my house and one person sits without talking, I come over and talk and treat them as a host. But in the United States, I have to go and mingle. I hate mingling so much. I have to talk and keep going through unimportant stories. In Korea, I am assigned to a dinner or gathering. I have a party with a sense of security. In America, I have nowhere to sit, and I don’t know where to go and who to talk to.”

–Immigrant woman of Korean origin in mid-40s

And a Bhutanese immigrant explained:

“In my case, I am not an American. I consider myself a Bhutanese. … I am a Bhutanese because I do not know American culture to consider myself as an American. It is very difficult to understand the sense of humor in America. So, we are pure Bhutanese in America.”

–Immigrant man of Bhutanese origin in early 40s

Language was also a key aspect of identity for the participants. Many immigrants in the focus groups said they speak a language other than English at home and in their daily lives. One Vietnamese man considered himself Vietnamese since his Vietnamese is better than his English. Others emphasized their English skills. A Bangladeshi participant felt that she was more accepted in the workplace when she does more “American” things and speaks fluent English, rather than sharing things from Bangladeshi culture. She felt that others in her workplace correlate her English fluency with her ability to do her job. For others born in the U.S., the language they speak at home influences their connection to their ethnic roots.

“Now if I go to my work and do show my Bengali culture and Asian culture, they are not going to take anything out of it. So, basically, I have to show something that they are interested in. I have to show that I am American, [that] I can speak English fluently. I can do whatever you give me as a responsibility. So, in those cases I can’t show anything about my culture.”

–Immigrant woman of Bangladeshi origin in late 20s

“Being bi-ethnic and tri-cultural creates so many unique dynamics, and … one of the dynamics has to do with … what it is to be Americanized. … One of the things that played a role into how I associate the identity is language. Now, my father never spoke Spanish to me … because he wanted me to develop a fluency in English, because for him, he struggled with English. What happened was three out of the four people that raised me were Khmer … they spoke to me in Khmer. We’d eat breakfast, lunch and dinner speaking Khmer. We’d go to the temple in Khmer with the language and we’d also watch videos and movies in Khmer. … Looking into why I strongly identify with the heritage, one of the reasons is [that] speaking that language connects to the home I used to have [as my families have passed away].”

–U.S.-born man of Cambodian origin in early 30s

Balancing between individualistic and collective thinking

For some immigrant participants, the main differences between themselves and others who are seen as “truly American” were less about cultural differences, or how people behave, and more about differences in “mindset,” or how people think . Those who identified strongly with their ethnicity discussed how their way of thinking is different from a “typical American.” To some, the “American mentality” is more individualistic, with less judgment on what one should do or how they should act . One immigrant Japanese man, for example, talked about how other Japanese-origin co-workers in the U.S. would work without taking breaks because it’s culturally inconsiderate to take a break while others continued working. However, he would speak up for himself and other workers when they are not taking any work breaks. He attributed this to his “American” way of thinking, which encourages people to stand up for themselves.

Some U.S.-born participants who grew up in an immigrant family described the cultural clashes that happened between themselves and their immigrant parents. Participants talked about how the second generation (children of immigrant parents) struggles to pursue their own dreams while still living up to the traditional expectations of their immigrant parents.

“I feel like one of the biggest things I’ve seen, just like [my] Asian American friends overall, is the kind of family-individualistic clash … like wanting to do your own thing is like, is kind of instilled in you as an American, like go and … follow your dream. But then you just grow up with such a sense of like also wanting to be there for your family and to live up to those expectations, and I feel like that’s something that’s very pronounced in Asian cultures.”

–U.S.-born man of Indian origin in mid-20s

Discussions also highlighted differences about gender roles between growing up in America compared with elsewhere.

“As a woman or being a girl, because of your gender, you have to keep your mouth shut [and] wait so that they call on you for you to speak up. … I do respect our elders and I do respect hearing their guidance but I also want them to learn to hear from the younger person … because we have things to share that they might not know and that [are] important … so I like to challenge gender roles or traditional roles because it is something that [because] I was born and raised here [in America], I learn that we all have the equal rights to be able to speak and share our thoughts and ideas.”

U.S. born have mixed ties to their family’s heritage

“I think being Hmong is somewhat of being free, but being free of others’ perceptions of you or of others’ attempts to assimilate you or attempts to put pressure on you. I feel like being Hmong is to resist, really.” Pa Houa , documentary participant

How U.S.-born participants identify themselves depends on their familiarity with their own heritage, whom they are talking with, where they are when asked about their identity and what the answer is used for. Some mentioned that they have stronger ethnic ties because they are very familiar with their family’s ethnic heritage. Others talked about how their eating habits and preferred dishes made them feel closer to their ethnic identity. For example, one Korean participant shared his journey of getting closer to his Korean heritage because of Korean food and customs. When some participants shared their reasons for feeling closer to their ethnic identity, they also expressed a strong sense of pride with their unique cultural and ethnic heritage.

“I definitely consider myself Japanese American. I mean I’m Japanese and American. Really, ever since I’ve grown up, I’ve really admired Japanese culture. I grew up watching a lot of anime and Japanese black and white films. Just learning about [it], I would hear about Japanese stuff from my grandparents … myself, and my family having blended Japanese culture and American culture together.”

–U.S.-born man of Japanese origin in late 20s

Meanwhile, participants who were not familiar with their family’s heritage showed less connection with their ethnic ties. One U.S.-born woman said she has a hard time calling herself Cambodian, as she is “not close to the Cambodian community.” Participants with stronger ethnic ties talked about relating to their specific ethnic group more than the broader Asian group. Another woman noted that being Vietnamese is “more specific and unique than just being Asian” and said that she didn’t feel she belonged with other Asians. Some participants also disliked being seen as or called “Asian,” in part because they want to distinguish themselves from other Asian groups. For example, one Taiwanese woman introduces herself as Taiwanese when she can, because she had frequently been seen as Chinese.

Some in the focus groups described how their views of their own identities shifted as they grew older. For example, some U.S.-born and immigrant participants who came to the U.S. at younger ages described how their experiences in high school and the need to “fit in” were important in shaping their own identities. A Chinese woman put it this way:

“So basically, all I know is that I was born in the United States. Again, when I came back, I didn’t feel any barrier with my other friends who are White or Black. … Then I got a little confused in high school when I had trouble self-identifying if I am Asian, Chinese American, like who am I. … Should I completely immerse myself in the American culture? Should I also keep my Chinese identity and stuff like that? So yeah, that was like the middle of that mist. Now, I’m pretty clear about myself. I think I am Chinese American, Asian American, whatever people want.”

–U.S.-born woman of Chinese origin in early 20s

Identity is influenced by birthplace

“I identified myself first and foremost as American. Even on the forms that you fill out that says, you know, ‘Asian’ or ‘Chinese’ or ‘other,’ I would check the ‘other’ box, and I would put ‘American Chinese’ instead of ‘Chinese American.’” Brent , documentary participant

When talking about what it means to be “American,” participants offered their own definitions. For some, “American” is associated with acquiring a distinct identity alongside their ethnic or racial backgrounds, rather than replacing them. One Indian participant put it this way:

“I would also say [that I am] Indian American just because I find myself always bouncing between the two … it’s not even like dual identity, it just is one whole identity for me, like there’s not this separation. … I’m doing [both] Indian things [and] American things. … They use that term like ABCD … ‘American Born Confused Desi’ … I don’t feel that way anymore, although there are those moments … but I would say [that I am] Indian American for sure.”

–U.S.-born woman of Indian origin in early 30s

Meanwhile, some U.S.-born participants view being American as central to their identity while also valuing the culture of their family’s heritage.

Many immigrant participants associated the term “American” with immigration status or citizenship. One Taiwanese woman said she can’t call herself American since she doesn’t have a U.S. passport. Notably, U.S. citizenship is an important milestone for many immigrant participants, giving them a stronger sense of belonging and ultimately calling themselves American. A Bangladeshi participant shared that she hasn’t received U.S. citizenship yet, and she would call herself American after she receives her U.S. passport.

Other participants gave an even narrower definition, saying only those born and raised in the United States are truly American. One Taiwanese woman mentioned that her son would be American since he was born, raised and educated in the U.S. She added that while she has U.S. citizenship, she didn’t consider herself American since she didn’t grow up in the U.S. This narrower definition has implications for belonging. Some immigrants in the groups said they could never become truly American since the way they express themselves is so different from those who were born and raised in the U.S. A Japanese woman pointed out that Japanese people “are still very intimidated by authorities,” while those born and raised in America give their opinions without hesitation.

“As soon as I arrived, I called myself a Burmese immigrant. I had a green card, but I still wasn’t an American citizen. … Now I have become a U.S. citizen, so now I am a Burmese American.”

–Immigrant man of Burmese origin in mid-30s

“Since I was born … and raised here, I kind of always view myself as American first who just happened to be Asian or Chinese. So I actually don’t like the term Chinese American or Asian American. I’m American Asian or American Chinese. I view myself as American first.”

–U.S.-born man of Chinese origin in early 60s

“[I used to think of myself as] Filipino, but recently I started saying ‘Filipino American’ because I got [U.S.] citizenship. And it just sounds weird to say Filipino American, but I’m trying to … I want to accept it. I feel like it’s now marry-able to my identity.”

–Immigrant woman of Filipino origin in early 30s

For others, American identity is about the process of ‘becoming’ culturally American

A Venn diagram showing how participants in the focus group study described their racial or ethnic identity overlaps with their American identity

Immigrant participants also emphasized how their experiences and time living in America inform their views of being an “American.” As a result, some started to see themselves as Americans after spending more than a decade in the U.S. One Taiwanese man considered himself an American since he knows more about the U.S. than Taiwan after living in the U.S. for over 52 years.

But for other immigrant participants, the process of “becoming” American is not about how long they have lived in the U.S., but rather how familiar they are with American culture and their ability to speak English with little to no accent. This is especially true for those whose first language is not English, as learning and speaking it without an accent can be a big challenge for some. One Bangladeshi participant shared that his pronunciation of “hot water” was very different from American English, resulting in confusions in communication. By contrast, those who were more confident in their English skills felt they can better understand American culture and values as a result, leading them to a stronger connection with an American identity.

“[My friends and family tease me for being Americanized when I go back to Japan.] I think I seem a little different to people who live in Japan. I don’t think they mean anything bad, and they [were] just joking, because I already know that I seem a little different to people who live in Japan.”

–Immigrant man of Japanese origin in mid-40s

“I value my Hmong culture, and language, and ethnicity, but I also do acknowledge, again, that I was born here in America and I’m grateful that I was born here, and I was given opportunities that my parents weren’t given opportunities for.”

–U.S.-born woman of Hmong origin in early 30s

During the focus group discussions about identity, a recurring theme emerged about the difference between how participants saw themselves and how others see them. When asked to elaborate on their experiences and their points of view, some participants shared experiences they had with people misidentifying their race or ethnicity. Others talked about their frustration with being labeled the “model minority.” In all these discussions, participants shed light on the negative impacts that mistaken assumptions and labels had on their lives.

All people see is ‘Asian’

For many, interactions with others (non-Asians and Asians alike) often required explaining their backgrounds, reacting to stereotypes, and for those from smaller origin groups in particular, correcting the misconception that being “Asian” means you come from one of the larger Asian ethnic groups. Several participants remarked that in their own experiences, when others think about Asians, they tend to think of someone who is Chinese. As one immigrant Filipino woman put it, “Interacting with [non-Asians in the U.S.], it’s hard. … Well, first, I look Spanish. I mean, I don’t look Asian, so would you guess – it’s like they have a vision of what an Asian [should] look like.” Similarly, an immigrant Indonesian man remarked how Americans tended to see Asians primarily through their physical features, which not all Asian groups share.

Several participants also described how the tendency to view Asians as a monolithic group can be even more common in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The first [thing people think of me as] is just Chinese. ‘You guys are just Chinese.’ I’m not the only one who felt [this] after the COVID-19 outbreak. ‘Whether you’re Japanese, Korean, or Southeast Asian, you’re just Chinese [to Americans]. I should avoid you.’ I’ve felt this way before, but I think I’ve felt it a bit more after the COVID-19 outbreak.”

–Immigrant woman of Korean origin in early 30s

At the same time, other participants described their own experiences trying to convince others that they are Asian or Asian American. This was a common experience among Southeast Asian participants.

“I have to convince people I’m Asian, not Middle Eastern. … If you type in Asian or you say Asian, most people associate it with Chinese food, Japanese food, karate, and like all these things but then they don’t associate it with you.”

–U.S.-born man of Pakistani origin in early 30s

The model minority myth and its impact

“I’ve never really done the best academically, compared to all my other Asian peers too. I never really excelled. I wasn’t in honors. … Those stereotypes, I think really [have] taken a toll on my self-esteem.” Diane , documentary participant

Across focus groups, immigrant and U.S.-born participants described the challenges of the seemingly positive stereotypes of Asians as intelligent, gifted in technical roles and hardworking. Participants often referred to this as the “model minority myth.”

The label “model minority” was coined in the 1960s and has been used to characterize Asian Americans as financially and educationally successful and hardworking when compared with other groups. However, for many Asians living in the United States, these characterizations do not align with their lived experiences or reflect their socioeconomic backgrounds. Indeed, among Asian origin groups in the U.S., there are wide differences in economic and social experiences.

Academic research on the model minority myth has pointed to its impact beyond Asian Americans and towards other racial and ethnic groups, especially Black Americans, in the U.S. Some argue that the model minority myth has been used to justify policies that overlook the historical circumstances and impacts of colonialism, slavery, discrimination and segregation on other non-White racial and ethnic groups.

Many participants noted ways in which the model minority myth has been harmful. For some, expectations based on the myth didn’t match their own experiences of coming from impoverished communities. Some also recalled experiences at school when they struggled to meet their teachers’ expectations in math and science.

“As an Asian person, I feel like there’s that stereotype that Asian students are high achievers academically. They’re good at math and science. … I was a pretty mediocre student, and math and science were actually my weakest subjects, so I feel like it’s either way you lose. Teachers expect you to fit a certain stereotype and if you’re not, then you’re a disappointment, but at the same time, even if you are good at math and science, that just means that you’re fitting a stereotype. It’s [actually] your own achievement, but your teachers might think, ‘Oh, it’s because they’re Asian,’ and that diminishes your achievement.”

–U.S.-born woman of Korean origin in late 20s

Some participants felt that even when being Asian worked in their favor in the job market, they encountered stereotypes that “Asians can do quality work with less compensation” or that “Asians would not complain about anything at work.”

“There is a joke from foreigners and even Asian Americans that says, ‘No matter what you do, Asians always do the best.’ You need to get A, not just B-plus. Otherwise, you’ll be a disgrace to the family. … Even Silicon Valley hires Asian because [an] Asian’s wage is cheaper but [they] can work better. When [work] visa overflow happens, they hire Asians like Chinese and Indian to work in IT fields because we are good at this and do not complain about anything.”

–Immigrant man of Thai origin in early 40s

Others expressed frustration that people were placing them in the model minority box. One Indian woman put it this way:

“Indian people and Asian people, like … our parents or grandparents are the ones who immigrated here … against all odds. … A lot of Indian and Asian people have succeeded and have done really well for themselves because they’ve worked themselves to the bone. So now the expectations [of] the newer generations who were born here are incredibly unrealistic and high. And you get that not only from your family and the Indian community, but you’re also getting it from all of the American people around you, expecting you to be … insanely good at math, play an instrument, you know how to do this, you know how to do that, but it’s not true. And it’s just living with those expectations, it’s difficult.”

–U.S.-born woman of Indian origin in early 20s

Whether U.S. born or immigrants, Asians are often seen by others as foreigners

“Being only not quite 10 years old, it was kind of exciting to ride on a bus to go someplace. But when we went to Pomona, the assembly center, we were stuck in one of the stalls they used for the animals.” Tokiko , documentary participant

Across all focus groups, participants highlighted a common question they are asked in America when meeting people for the first time: “Where are you really from?” For participants, this question implied that people think they are “foreigners,” even though they may be longtime residents or citizens of the United States or were born in the country. One man of Vietnamese origin shared his experience with strangers who assumed that he and his friends are North Korean. Perhaps even more hurtful, participants mentioned that this meant people had a preconceived notion of what an “American” is supposed to look like, sound like or act like. One Chinese woman said that White Americans treated people like herself as outsiders based on her skin color and appearance, even though she was raised in the U.S.

Many focus group participants also acknowledged the common stereotype of treating Asians as “forever foreigners.” Some immigrant participants said they felt exhausted from constantly being asked this question by people even when they speak perfect English with no accent. During the discussion, a Korean immigrant man recalled that someone had said to him, “You speak English well, but where are you from?” One Filipino participant shared her experience during the first six months in the U.S.:

“You know, I spoke English fine. But there were certain things that, you know, people constantly questioning you like, oh, where are you from? When did you come here? You know, just asking about your experience to the point where … you become fed up with it after a while.”

–Immigrant woman of Filipino origin in mid-30s

U.S.-born participants also talked about experiences when others asked where they are from. Many shared that they would not talk about their ethnic origin right away when answering such a question because it often led to misunderstandings and assumptions that they are immigrants.

“I always get that question of, you know, ‘Where are you from?’ and I’m like, ‘I’m from America.’ And then they’re like, ‘No. Where are you from-from ?’ and I’m like, ‘Yeah, my family is from Pakistan,’ so it’s like I always had like that dual identity even though it’s never attached to me because I am like, of Pakistani descent.”

–U.S.-born man of Pakistani origin in early 20s

One Korean woman born in the U.S. said that once people know she is Korean, they ask even more offensive questions such as “Are you from North or South Korea?” or “Do you still eat dogs?”

In a similar situation, this U.S.-born Indian woman shared her responses:

“I find that there’s a, ‘So but where are you from?’ Like even in professional settings when they feel comfortable enough to ask you. ‘So – so where are you from?’ ‘Oh, I was born in [names city], Colorado. Like at [the hospital], down the street.’ ‘No, but like where are you from?’ ‘My mother’s womb?’”

–U.S.-born woman of Indian origin in early 40s

Ignorance and misinformation about Asian identity can lead to contentious encounters

“I have dealt with kids who just gave up on their Sikh identity, cut their hair and groomed their beard and everything. They just wanted to fit in and not have to deal with it, especially [those] who are victim or bullied in any incident.” Surinder , documentary participant

In some cases, ignorance and misinformation about Asians in the U.S. lead to inappropriate comments or questions and uncomfortable or dangerous situations. Participants shared their frustration when others asked about their country of origin, and they then had to explain their identity or correct misunderstandings or stereotypes about their background. At other times, some participants faced ignorant comments about their ethnicity, which sometimes led to more contentious encounters. For example, some Indian or Pakistani participants talked about the attacks or verbal abuse they experienced from others blaming them for the 9/11 terrorist attacks. Others discussed the racial slurs directed toward them since the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Some Japanese participants recalled their families losing everything and being incarcerated during World War II and the long-term effect it had on their lives.

“I think like right now with the coronavirus, I think we’re just Chinese, Chinese American, well, just Asian American or Asians in general, you’re just going through the same struggles right now. Like everyone is just blaming whoever looks Asian about the virus. You don’t feel safe.”

–U.S.-born man of Chinese origin in early 30s

“At the beginning of the pandemic, a friend and I went to celebrate her birthday at a club and like these guys just kept calling us COVID.”

–U.S.-born woman of Korean origin in early 20s

“There [were] a lot of instances after 9/11. One day, somebody put a poster about 9/11 [in front of] my business. He was wearing a gun. … On the poster, it was written ‘you Arabs, go back to your country.’ And then someone came inside. He pointed his gun at me and said ‘Go back to your country.’”

–Immigrant man of Pakistani origin in mid-60s

“[My parents went through the] internment camps during World War II. And my dad, he was in high school, so he was – they were building the camps and then he was put into the Santa Anita horse track place, the stables there. And then they were sent – all the Japanese Americans were sent to different camps, right, during World War II and – in California. Yeah, and they lost everything, yeah.”

–U.S.-born woman of Japanese origin in mid-60s

As focus group participants contemplated their identity during the discussions, many talked about their sense of belonging in America. Although some felt frustrated with people misunderstanding their ethnic heritage, they didn’t take a negative view of life in America. Instead, many participants – both immigrant and U.S. born – took pride in their unique cultural and ethnic backgrounds. In these discussions, people gave their own definitions of America as a place with a diverse set of cultures, with their ethnic heritage being a part of it.

Taking pride in their unique cultures

“Being a Pakistani American, I’m proud. … Because I work hard, and I make true my dreams from here.” Shahid , documentary participant

Despite the challenges of adapting to life in America for immigrant participants or of navigating their dual cultural identity for U.S.-born ones, focus group participants called America their home. And while participants talked about their identities in different ways – ethnic identity, racial (Asian) identity, and being American – they take pride in their unique cultures. Many also expressed a strong sense of responsibility to give back or support their community, sharing their cultural heritage with others on their own terms.

“Right now it has been a little difficult. I think it has been for all Asians because of the COVID issue … but I’m glad that we’re all here [in America]. I think we should be proud to be here. I’m glad that our families have traveled here, and we can help make life better for communities, our families and ourselves. I think that’s really a wonderful thing. We can be those role models for a lot of the future, the younger folks. I hope that something I did in the last years will have impacted either my family, friends or students that I taught in other community things that I’ve done. So you hope that it helps someplace along the line.”

“I am very proud of my culture. … There is not a single Bengali at my workplace, but people know the name of my country. Maybe many years [later] – educated people know all about the country. So, I don’t have to explain that there is a small country next to India and Nepal. It’s beyond saying. People after all know Bangladesh. And there are so many Bengali present here as well. So, I am very proud to be a Bangladeshi.”

Where home is

When asked about the definition of home, some immigrant participants said home is where their families are located. Immigrants in the focus groups came to the United States by various paths, whether through work opportunities, reuniting with family or seeking a safe haven as refugees. Along their journey, some received support from family members, their local community or other individuals, while others overcame challenges by themselves. Either way, they take pride in establishing their home in America and can feel hurt when someone tells them to “go back to your country.” In response, one Laotian woman in her mid-40s said, “This is my home. My country. Go away.”

“If you ask me personally, I view my home as my house … then I would say my house is with my family because wherever I go, I cannot marry if I do not have my family so that is how I would answer.”

–Immigrant man of Hmong origin in late 30s

“[If somebody yelled at me ‘go back to your country’] I’d feel angry because this is my country! I live here. America is my country. I grew up here and worked here … I’d say, ‘This is my country! You go back to your country! … I will not go anywhere. This is my home. I will live here.’ That’s what I’d say.”

–Immigrant woman of Laotian origin in early 50s

‘American’ means to blend their unique cultural and ethnic heritage with that in the U.S.

“I want to teach my children two traditions – one American and one Vietnamese – so they can compare and choose for themselves the best route in life.” Helen , documentary participant (translated from Vietnamese)

Both U.S.-born and immigrant participants in the focus groups shared their experiences of navigating a dual cultural environment between their ethnic heritage and American culture. A common thread that emerged was that being Asian in America is a process of blending two or more identities as one.

“Yeah, I want to say that’s how I feel – because like thinking about it, I would call my dad Lao but I would call myself Laotian American because I think I’m a little more integrated in the American society and I’ve also been a little more Americanized, compared to my dad. So that’s how I would see it.”

–U.S.-born man of Laotian origin in late 20s

“I mean, Bangladeshi Americans who are here, we are carrying Bangladeshi culture, religion, food. I am also trying to be Americanized like the Americans. Regarding language, eating habits.”

–Immigrant man of Bangladeshi origin in mid-50s

“Just like there is Chinese American, Mexican American, Japanese American, Italian American, so there is Indian American. I don’t want to give up Indianness. I am American by nationality, but I am Indian by birth. So whenever I talk, I try to show both the flags as well, both Indian and American flags. Just because you make new relatives but don’t forget the old relatives.”

–Immigrant man of Indian origin in late 40s

Pew Research Center designed these focus groups to better understand how members of an ethnically diverse Asian population think about their place in America and life here. By including participants of different languages, immigration or refugee experiences, educational backgrounds, and income levels, this focus group study aimed to capture in people’s own words what it means to be Asian in America. The discussions in these groups may or may not resonate with all Asians living in the United States. Browse excerpts from our focus groups with the interactive quote sorter below, view a video documentary focused on the topics discussed in the focus groups, or tell us your story of belonging in America via social media. The focus group project is part of a broader research project studying the diverse experiences of Asians living in the U.S.

Read sortable quotes from our focus groups

Browse excerpts in the interactive quote sorter from focus group participants in response to the question “What does it mean to be [Vietnamese, Thai, Sri Lankan, Hmong, etc.] like yourself in America?” This interactive allows you to sort quotes from focus group participants by ethnic origin, nativity (U.S. born or born in another country), gender and age.

Video documentary

Videos throughout the data essay illustrate what focus group participants discussed. Those recorded in these videos did not participate in the focus groups but were sampled to have similar demographic characteristics and thematically relevant stories.

Watch the full video documentary and watch additional shorter video clips related to the themes of this data essay.

Share the story of your family and your identity

Did the voices in this data essay resonate? Share your story of what it means to be Asian in America with @pewresearch. Tell us your story by using the hashtag #BeingAsianInAmerica and @pewidentity on Twitter, as well as #BeingAsianInAmerica and @pewresearch on Instagram.

This cross-ethnic, comparative qualitative research project explores the identity, economic mobility, representation, and experiences of immigration and discrimination among the Asian population in the United States. The analysis is based on 66 focus groups we conducted virtually in the fall of 2021 and included 264 participants from across the U.S. More information about the groups and analysis can be found in this appendix .

Pew Research Center is a subsidiary of The Pew Charitable Trusts, its primary funder. This data essay was funded by The Pew Charitable Trusts, with generous support from the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative DAF, an advised fund of the Silicon Valley Community Foundation; the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation; the Henry Luce Foundation; The Wallace H. Coulter Foundation; The Dirk and Charlene Kabcenell Foundation; The Long Family Foundation; Lu-Hebert Fund; Gee Family Foundation; Joseph Cotchett; the Julian Abdey and Sabrina Moyle Charitable Fund; and Nanci Nishimura.

The accompanying video clips and video documentary were made possible by The Pew Charitable Trusts, with generous support from The Sobrato Family Foundation and The Long Family Foundation.

We would also like to thank the Leaders Forum for its thought leadership and valuable assistance in helping make this study possible. This is a collaborative effort based on the input and analysis of a number of individuals and experts at Pew Research Center and outside experts.

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Proper Use of Weather Descriptions in English Compositions

1. Brainstorm and make a list of all kinds of weather that you can think of.

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