inondation
/i.nɔ.da.sjɔ̃/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).
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💡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).