Weather: meaning, definitions and examples

This term is generally used to describe the day-to-day state of the atmosphere in a specific place, including factors like temperature, humidity, precipitation, and wind.

• The weather today is sunny and warm.
• She checked the weather forecast before going on a hike.

Climate refers to the long-term patterns and average conditions of temperature, humidity, wind, etc., in a particular region over an extended period.

• The climate in the Sahara Desert is very hot and dry.
• Scientists are studying changes in the global climate.

Meteorology is the scientific study of the atmosphere that focuses on weather processes and forecasting. It is a more technical term typically used in academic or professional contexts.

• He is studying meteorology to become a weather forecaster.
• Advances in meteorology have greatly improved our ability to predict storms.

Conditions is a broader term that may refer to the current state of the atmosphere at a particular time and place, often used in conjunction with weather to specify aspects like road or travel conditions.

• Driving conditions are hazardous due to the snowstorm.
• What are the weather conditions like today?

Use 'weather' metaphorically to describe making it through a difficult situation or crisis, often with the help of perseverance.

• The company managed to weather the financial crisis fairly well.
• She weathered the storm of public criticism and continued her work.

Use 'endure' when talking about overcoming hardships or challenges over a long period. It implies a sense of persistence and toughness.

• He had to endure years of hard work before he saw success.
• She endured the pain with great strength.

Use 'withstand' when referring to standing strong against forces or pressures, whether physical or metaphorical. It implies resistance and robustness.

• The building was designed to withstand earthquakes.
• He could not withstand the pressure from his peers and eventually gave in.

Use 'survive' to describe making it through a life-threatening or extreme situation. It often implies that the person or thing is still alive or functioning.

• They survived the plane crash with minor injuries.
• He managed to survive on very little food for weeks.