inondation

/i.nɔ.da.sjɔ̃/

What does "inondation" mean in English?

flood

L'inondation a causé de graves dégâts dans la ville.

The flood caused severe damage in the city.

How to use "inondation" correctly: definitions and examples in English?

formal

A large-scale overflow of water onto normally dry land, often caused by heavy rain, river overflow, or storm surges.

Les inondations sont devenues plus fréquentes à cause du changement climatique.

Floods have become more frequent due to climate change.

The term can also refer to a sudden influx of something metaphorically, such as 'une inondation de messages' (a flood of messages).

to be overwhelmed by emotions

Pro Tip

Metaphorical Usage

In French, 'inondation' can be used metaphorically to describe a large influx of something, such as 'une inondation de travail' (a flood of work).

Gold Rule

Formal vs. Informal

While 'inondation' is formal, informal contexts may use 'déluge' or 'crues' interchangeably.

Word Origin

From Latin 'inundatio', meaning 'overflow', derived from 'inundare' (to flood).

Usage Notes

In French, 'inondation' is often used in both literal and metaphorical contexts. In technical contexts, it may refer to specific types of flooding, such as 'inondation fluviale' (river flooding) or 'inondation côtière' (coastal flooding).

Word Breakdown

in-

into

prefix

-ondation

flowing

root

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