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"Tempestad" is a noun which is often translated as "storm", and "tormenta" is a noun which is also often translated as "storm". Learn more about the difference between "tempestad" and "tormenta" below.
la tempestad()
A feminine noun is almost always used with feminine articles and adjectives (e.g., la mujer bonita, la luna llena).
1. (weather)
b. tempest (literary)
A word or phrase restricted in usage to literature or established writing (e.g., sex, once upon a time).
La tempestad tomó por sorpresa al capitán.The tempest took the captain by surprise.
2. (agitation)
a. storm
El resultado de las elecciones levantó una tempestad de protestas.The result of the election raised a storm of protest.
la tormenta()
A feminine noun is almost always used with feminine articles and adjectives (e.g., la mujer bonita, la luna llena).
1. (weather)
b. thunderstorm (with thunder and lightning)
No pude dormir anoche con esa tormenta. ¡Qué miedo!I couldn't sleep last night with that thunderstorm. It was so scary!
2. (commotion)
a. storm
La subida de impuestos desató una tormenta de críticas contra el gobierno.The raise in taxes unleashed a storm of criticism against the government.
