Usage Note
Orage specifically denotes a storm with thunder and lightning, as distinct from tempête (gale) or pluie (rain). The adjective orageux ('stormy, turbulent') is widely used both literally and figuratively — une discussion orageuse is a heated argument. The phrase il y a de l'orage dans l'air ('there's trouble brewing') is a common idiom.
Examples
"Un violent orage a éclaté hier soir."
Natural Translation
A violent thunderstorm broke out last night.
Related Words
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