Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Inclement Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐ŸŒง๏ธ
Add to dictionary

inclement

[ษชnหˆklษ›mษ™nt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

weather

inclement weather refers to unpleasant or severe weather conditions, such as rain, snow, or strong winds, that make outdoor activities difficult or unpleasant. Inclement weather can also refer to extreme weather events like hurricanes or blizzards.

Synonyms

harsh, severe, stormy, unpleasant.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
inclement

This word is typically used in formal or technical contexts, especially when talking about weather conditions that are cold and wet.

  • The hikers had to turn back due to inclement weather
  • They were unprepared for such inclement conditions
severe

Severe is used to talk about conditions or actions that are very intense, serious, or extreme in nature. It's often found in both formal and informal contexts.

  • The region faced severe drought for months
  • Her illness is quite severe
harsh

Harsh is used to describe something extremely strict, severe, or unpleasant. It can be used both for weather and non-weather situations, but often carries a negative connotation.

  • The judge gave a harsh sentence
  • They had to endure harsh winters up north
unpleasant

Unpleasant is a general term used to describe anything that is not enjoyable or gives discomfort. It has a broad application, from describing weather to experiences or interactions.

  • The meeting was quite unpleasant
  • They experienced unpleasant weather during their trip
stormy

This word is mostly used when describing weather characterized by rain, strong winds, and possibly thunder and lightning. It can also describe turbulent situations or emotions.

  • The crew stayed in the harbor due to stormy seas
  • They had a stormy relationship, full of arguments

Examples of usage

  • Despite the inclement weather, the football game went on as scheduled.
  • The picnic was cancelled due to inclement weather.
  • People were advised to stay indoors during the inclement weather.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Weather Phenomena

  • Inclement weather often includes heavy rain, snowstorms, or extremely cold temperatures.
  • Meteorologists use the term to alert people about conditions that could affect travel and safety.
  • The North American blizzard is a classic example where inclement weather can lead to school closures and travel disruptions.

Literature

  • The term appears in various literary works to set a melancholy or foreboding tone, enhancing the mood of a narrative.
  • Shakespeare used inclement weather as a backdrop in plays to reflect characters' emotions and conflicts.
  • In poetry, inclement weather often symbolizes inner turmoil or challenges faced by characters.

Psychology

  • Studies show that inclement weather can affect mood, leading to feelings of gloominess or lethargy.
  • People often have increased anxiety when predicting weather disruptions, demonstrating how weather impacts mental health.
  • Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) can intensify during periods of prolonged dreariness associated with inclement conditions.

Pop Culture

  • Inclement weather is a common trope in movies, used to heighten dramatic tension or force character introspection.
  • Songs often reference bad weather, expressing emotions linked to heartbreak or struggle against adversity.
  • Television shows frequently depict inclement weather as a catalyst for pivotal plot points, such as reunions or climactic events.

Origin of 'inclement'

Main points about word origin

  • Derived from the Latin word 'inclemens', which means 'harsh' or 'cruel', originally used to describe unkind weather.
  • The prefix 'in-' indicates negation, so 'inclement' essentially means not mild or pleasant.
  • First known usage in English dates back to the early 15th century, often referring to bad weather.

The word 'inclement' originated from the Latin word 'inclemens', which means 'harsh' or 'rough'. It has been used in English since the 17th century to describe harsh or severe weather conditions. Over time, 'inclement' has become commonly used to refer to adverse weather that makes outdoor activities challenging.

See also: clement, clementine.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,468, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.