a running stream

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a running stream" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a stream of water that is flowing continuously, often in a natural setting. Example: "The sound of a running stream added to the tranquility of the forest."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

The stories read as if they were composed at one sitting, and they have the spontaneity of a running stream".

The New Yorker

Immediately loud explosions occurred, and the whole side of the narrow street became a running stream of flame.

The Guardian

Most innovative, above the bar was a new service being sold: a sports ticker with a running stream of updated scores from around the country.

The New York Times - Sports

The other half is a kitsch paradise: a green stone meadow coursed by a running stream and dotted with igloo-shaped saunas.

The New York Times

Fred Knittle, 82, keeps up a running stream of patter, much of it at the expense of his wife of 57 years.

The New York Times

Their 30-minute run took them under bridges and alongside a running stream, and it wasn't as scary as it sounds, or so I was told.

The New York Times - Travel

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

29 human-written examples

Ask your partner to close his or her eyes, and imagine being in a "happy place" where one can feel comfortable and secure, such as relaxing in a meadow beside a gently running stream.

WikiHow

Use an eye cup to rinse your eyes, or keep your open eye under a gently running stream of tap water.

WikiHow

But a Grendel running streams -- man, that would be beyond all coolness".

The New York Times - Books

A user like me, running streams in a background window, makes no money for the site at all.

Forbes

As a doe longs for running streams, so longs my soul for you, my God.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a running stream" to evoke a sense of natural beauty, tranquility, or continuous movement in your writing. It's particularly effective in descriptive passages or when setting a peaceful scene.

Common error

Avoid using "a running stream" in contexts where a more abstract term like "constant flow" or "steady stream" would be more appropriate. "A running stream" is best reserved for literal descriptions of water.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a running stream" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "running" acts as a present participle modifying the noun "stream". The phrase is used to describe a specific type of natural watercourse. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Wiki

18%

Science

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a running stream" is a grammatically sound and commonly used noun phrase that describes a flowing watercourse. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is suitable for both literal descriptions and evocative imagery. Its most frequent use cases are found in News & Media, Wiki, and Scientific contexts. When using the phrase, reserve it for describing real water streams to avoid contextual inappropriateness. For alternatives, consider "a flowing stream" or "a babbling brook" for similar meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a flowing stream

Emphasizes the continuous movement of the water, similar to "a running stream".

a babbling brook

Highlights the sound the water makes as it flows, adding an auditory element.

a flowing brook

Combines continuous motion with small stream, almost interchangeable with query.

a meandering creek

Focuses on the winding path of the watercourse.

a cascading stream

Draws attention to the water falling over rocks or other obstacles.

a trickling stream

Implies a small and gentle flow of water.

a purling stream

Describes a stream with a gentle, murmuring sound.

a constant flow

Focuses on uninterrupted movement, applicable beyond water bodies.

a continuous flow

Similar to constant flow, emphasizing the ongoing nature of the movement.

a live feed

Transfers continuous stream idea to the technology domain.

FAQs

How can I use "a running stream" in a sentence?

You can use "a running stream" to describe a natural watercourse in sentences like: "The campsite was located next to "a running stream"." or "The sound of "a running stream" was incredibly peaceful."

What are some synonyms for "a running stream"?

Alternatives include: "a flowing stream", "a babbling brook", or "a meandering creek", each with slightly different connotations.

When is it appropriate to use "a running stream" in writing?

It is appropriate when describing a natural setting, emphasizing the movement of water, or creating a sense of tranquility. Avoid using it in abstract or metaphorical contexts where a different term would be more suitable.

Is there a difference between "a running stream" and "a flowing stream"?

While similar, "a flowing stream" emphasizes the continuous movement, whereas ""a running stream"" implies a more active or lively flow. The distinction is subtle and they are often interchangeable.