a water pipe

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a water pipe" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a pipe designed for carrying water, often in plumbing or construction contexts. Example: "The plumber installed a new water pipe to ensure proper drainage in the basement."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

It took out a water pipe.

The New York Times

"There is a water pipe nearby.

The Guardian

"The reason you come to a water-pipe club is to smoke a water pipe.

The New York Times

"Let's say a water pipe is spurting water.

The New York Times

Say a gas main crosses a water pipe.

The New York Times

Once, a water pipe burst and flooded the master bedroom.

The New York Times - Travel

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

People go there to hang out, smoke a water-pipe or throw a frisbee.

The Guardian - Travel

Sharing a water-pipe is thought to be harmless, relaxing fun.

BBC

Questions about smoking with a water-pipe added a new dimension to the discussion.

BMC Pediatrics

If you want to make a water-pipe or bong-style pipe to smoke out of, you'll need: If you want to make a water-pipe or bong-style pipe to smoke out of, you'll need: Two 12 oz cans.

WikiHow

Dressed in a full-length black chador, their mother smokes a narghile a water pipe while watching her children play.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing construction or plumbing work, use "a water pipe" for clarity and conciseness. For example, "The plumber replaced a water pipe to prevent leaks."

Common error

Avoid using "a water pipe" when referring to pipes intended for other fluids, such as gas or sewage. Always specify the type of pipe to prevent miscommunication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a water pipe" functions primarily as a noun phrase, acting as the subject or object within a sentence. Ludwig provides numerous examples showing its use in describing plumbing systems, construction, and household repairs. The phrase clearly denotes a pipe specifically for carrying water.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Wiki

18%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the analysis confirms that the phrase "a water pipe" is grammatically correct and very common across diverse contexts. As confirmed by Ludwig, it functions as a noun phrase to identify a pipe specifically designed for carrying water. Its register is generally neutral, making it suitable for various settings, including news reports, scientific articles, and general discussions. Its prevalence in authoritative sources like The New York Times and The Washington Post reinforces its acceptability and broad applicability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a plumbing pipe

Focuses specifically on the pipe's function within a plumbing system.

a water conduit

Emphasizes the pipe as a channel for conveying water.

a domestic water line

Specifies that the pipe supplies water for household use.

a water supply pipe

Highlights the pipe's role in providing a water supply.

a potable water pipe

Indicates the pipe carries drinking water.

a service water pipe

Refers to a pipe that serves a particular water need or utility.

a water distribution pipe

Highlights the pipe's function in a water distribution system.

a main water line

Indicates a primary pipe in a water system.

a residential water pipe

Specifies that the pipe is used in a residential setting.

a municipal water pipe

Indicates that the pipe is part of the city's water system.

FAQs

How to use "a water pipe" in a sentence?

You can use "a water pipe" to describe a pipe specifically designed for carrying water. For example, "The construction crew installed "a water pipe" to supply the building with fresh water."

What can I say instead of "a water pipe"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "a plumbing pipe", "a water conduit", or "a water line".

Which is correct, "a water pipe" or "a pipe for water"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but "a water pipe" is more concise and commonly used. "A pipe for water" is less frequent but understandable.

What's the difference between "a water pipe" and "a gas pipe"?

"A water pipe" is specifically designed for transporting water, whereas "a gas pipe" is designed for transporting natural gas or other gaseous fuels. Using the correct term is crucial for safety and clarity.