a thin flow of water

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a thin flow of water" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a small or gentle stream of water, often in a natural setting or when discussing water movement. Example: "After the rain, there was a thin flow of water trickling down the hillside, creating a soothing sound."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

A thin flow of bile mixed with a radical amusement and a fierce, uncooked intelligence, nourished over decades of contemplation.

The New Yorker

Normally a thin flow of treated sewage, the river swelled with mocha-colored runoff.

Los Angeles Times

Water desalination in a greenhouse roof means that solar energy is absorbed for evaporation from a thin, flowing layer of water.

Desalination

The absorber was painted with matt-finish black to enhance its absorptivity of sun radiation and was placed towards the south and tilted 20° to the horizontal, which provided an almost uniform thickness of a thin layer of water flow.

Renewables: Wind, Water, and Solar

In the third-floor dining room, tilted glass panels open up to the sky in clear weather, and a thin sheet of water flows down a stone slab near the entrance.

The New York Times - Arts

In the third-floor dining room, tilted glass panels open to the sky in clear weather, and a thin sheet of water flows down a stone slab near the entrance.

The New York Times - Arts

But the lucky ones step into the silver steel elevator and head for the third-floor dining room, a double eyeful designed by Grant Koerner of Untitled Inc. Tilted glass panels open up to the sky in clear weather, and a thin sheet of water flows down a stone slab near the entrance.

The New York Times - Food

As part of the 65th Street plan the reflecting pool is to be elongated slightly, and a black granite plinth is to be installed over which a thin membrane of water will flow.

The New York Times - Arts

SLIPS' thin layer of liquid lubricant allows liquids to flow easily over the surface, much as a thin layer of water on an ice rink helps an ice skater glide.

Harvard University

SLIPS's thin layer of liquid lubricant allows liquids to flow easily over the surface, much as a thin layer of water in an ice rink helps an ice skater glide.

Harvard University

It spans a sparkling flow of water, and stretches of sensuously painted greenery line both banks.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a water feature in landscaping or design, use "a thin flow of water" to evoke a sense of tranquility and elegance. For instance, "The fountain featured a thin flow of water cascading over smooth stones."

Common error

Avoid using "a thin flow of water" in highly technical or scientific contexts where precise measurements and flow rates are necessary. Instead, use more quantitative terms like "low flow rate" or specify the volume and velocity of the water movement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a thin flow of water" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. Based on Ludwig, the phrase is usable in written English, describing a small or gentle stream of water.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a thin flow of water" is a grammatically sound noun phrase used to describe a small or gentle water current. While Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English, its frequency is currently not well-defined due to limited examples. It is suitable for neutral contexts, such as descriptive writing in news or general observations. For technical or scientific writing, more precise terminology may be preferred. Related phrases like "a trickle of water" or "a gentle stream of water" offer alternative ways to convey similar meanings with slightly different nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a trickle of water

Focuses on the small amount and intermittent nature of the water's movement.

a gentle stream of water

Emphasizes the mild and non-forceful movement of the water.

a light current of water

Highlights the minimal strength and flow of the water.

a slender cascade of water

Suggests a vertical drop of water, adding a visual element of height.

a fine stream of water

Indicates a very narrow and delicate flow of water.

a narrow river of water

Implies a confined and elongated body of water, albeit small.

a weak flow of water

Directly describes the flow's lack of strength or intensity.

a slight water flow

Uses 'slight' to convey the minimal nature of the water movement.

a minimal water stream

Emphasizes the extremely small quantity of water flowing.

a reduced water flow

Suggests that a previously larger flow has diminished.

FAQs

How can I describe a very small amount of water moving?

You can use phrases like "a trickle of water", "a gentle stream of water", or "a light current of water" to describe a small amount of water moving depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

What is the difference between "a thin flow of water" and "a stream of water"?

"A thin flow of water" implies a smaller, less forceful movement of water compared to "a stream of water", which suggests a more substantial and defined watercourse. "A stream of water" is more generic and does not specify the size or intensity of the flow.

In what situations is it appropriate to use the phrase "a thin flow of water"?

It's appropriate when describing delicate water features in gardens, a small leak, or any situation where a minimal amount of water is moving gently. Avoid using it in scientific or technical contexts that demand precise measurements.

Are there any synonyms for "a thin flow of water" that emphasize beauty or tranquility?

Yes, you could use phrases like "a slender cascade of water" (if the water is falling) or "a gentle trickle" to evoke a sense of beauty and peace. These options add a more aesthetic or sensory element.