Answer to "cloud coverage" question

CLOUD COVERAGE -- Inger K. Hultgren of New York City, NY has a bet with a friend as to the difference between the terms "partly sunny" and "partly cloudy". Which do you think is cloudier? Why?. -- 8/4/01

According to the National Weather Service, the terms have distinct meanings but only due to time of day.

During daylight hours, the term "partly sunny" should be used; at night, lacking sun, the term "partly cloudy" is preferred.

Now, I do not necessarily want to disagree with the NWS, but I think the terms depend more upon one's outlook. Consider the following scenarios.

You are in Seattle, Washington in the middle of winter. It has been cloudy for days. Then, one afternoon, the sun peaks out for a few minutes (even with mostly cloudy skies). Wouldn't the term "partly sunny" be a nice positive to use?

Relocate to Phoenix, Arizona in the spring. It has been cloudless for days. Suddenly, three small cumulus clouds appear. Wouldn't "partly cloudy" be a shady encouragement term?

In all seriousness, not withstanding the "official" definitions, the terms really are mostly interchangeable. It just depends on your mood and frame of mind.

As for the bet, I'd say its a draw!

Take a look back at the Question