nube de polvo
Lemma Details
Translation: dust cloud; dust storm
Part of Speech: noun phrase
Etymology: Compound phrase from 'nube' (cloud) and 'polvo' (dust). 'Nube' comes from Latin 'nubes' (cloud), related to English words like 'nebula'. 'Polvo' derives from Latin 'pulvis' (dust, powder), which gives us English words like 'pulverize' (to reduce to powder).
Commonality: 50%
Guessability: 80%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
Una nube de polvo se levantó cuando pasó el camión.
A dust cloud rose when the truck passed by.
Los agricultores observaron con preocupación la nube de polvo que se acercaba.
The farmers watched with concern as the dust cloud approached.
El viento del desierto creó una enorme nube de polvo.
The desert wind created a huge dust cloud.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'nube' (cloud) carrying 'polvo' (dust) - a cloud made of dust particles
- Visualize a 'new' (nube) layer of 'pulverized' (polvo) material in the air
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
In Spanish-speaking regions with arid climates like parts of Mexico, Spain, and South America, 'nubes de polvo' are common natural phenomena. They can be significant environmental hazards during dry seasons.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'nube de polvo' refers to suspended dust particles, 'nube de humo' specifically refers to smoke clouds from combustion.
Confused word:
Del incendio salía una nube de humo negro.
A cloud of black smoke was coming from the fire.
Notes: Both are atmospheric phenomena that reduce visibility, but have different causes and compositions.
Mnemonic: 'Polvo' is solid particles; 'humo' comes from burning (think 'fume').