calm water

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "calm water" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to describe a body of water that is peaceful and still. Here is an example sentence: "The sun set over the serene lake, its surface reflecting the colors of the sky, as the calm water lulled me into a state of relaxation."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

In previous work the results of an extensive experimental program in calm water were presented.

Ocean Engineering

Unidirectional gravity-inertial spreading of oil on calm water is investigated.

Chemical Engineering Science

Calm water resistance for the two different categories of LNG carriers was estimated.

Journal of Natural Gas Science and Engineering

Trajectories are presented for the ONR Tumblehome maneuvering in calm water and head and following waves.

Ocean Engineering

The ship motion in head seas was examined after the calm water tests.

International Journal of Naval Architecture and Ocean Engineering

In calm water tests, running attitude and resistance of model ships are measured at various speeds.

International Journal of Naval Architecture and Ocean Engineering

Simulations are performed in three different wave conditions, including calm water, regular wave and irregular wave.

Ocean Engineering

(As much as 25 percent can be recovered in sheltered areas with very calm water).

The New York Times

Between rapids, we paddled through stretches of calm water that sometimes widened into small, reedy lakes.

The New York Times - Travel

The perfectly calm water is ideal for toddlers to splash around.

The New York Times - Travel

"It's really hard to find a female that can't just float in calm water," said Tipton.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a scene, use "calm water" to evoke a sense of peace and tranquility. It's particularly effective in setting a serene or reflective mood.

Common error

Avoid using "calm water" when you actually want to convey a sense of hidden danger or deceptiveness beneath the surface. While "calm" suggests peace, the context might require a word that hints at underlying tension. Consider using words like "deceptive" or "still" in such contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "calm water" functions primarily as a descriptive noun phrase. It modifies a noun (water) with an adjective (calm) to denote a specific state of the water body, emphasizing its stillness and lack of disturbance, as seen in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

36%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "calm water" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe a peaceful and undisturbed body of water. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and wide applicability, noting its frequent use in both scientific and journalistic contexts. While synonyms such as "still water" and "tranquil water" offer slight nuances, "calm water" is particularly effective in evoking a sense of serenity. When using this phrase, be mindful of the intended connotation and avoid it in situations where a sense of underlying tension or danger is desired. As demonstrated by Ludwig's examples, "calm water" is a versatile phrase suitable for a variety of descriptive purposes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

still water

Replaces "calm" with "still", emphasizing the lack of movement.

tranquil water

Substitutes "calm" with "tranquil", highlighting the peaceful nature of the water.

peaceful water

Replaces "calm" with "peaceful", focusing on the serenity of the water.

placid water

Uses "placid" instead of "calm", suggesting a gentle and undisturbed surface.

smooth water

Emphasizes the evenness of the water's surface.

unruffled water

Highlights the absence of ripples or disturbances on the water.

glassy water

Describes the water as having a reflective, glass-like surface due to its stillness.

serene water

Focuses on the undisturbed and peaceful aspect of the water body.

motionless water

Emphasizes the complete lack of movement in the water.

undisturbed water

Highlights the absence of any disruptions or agitation in the water.

FAQs

How can I use "calm water" in a sentence?

You can use "calm water" to describe a peaceful scene, such as: "The boat glided effortlessly across the "calm water" of the lake."

What are some synonyms for "calm water"?

Alternatives include "still water", "tranquil water", or "peaceful water", each emphasizing a slightly different aspect of stillness and serenity.

Is it ever inappropriate to use the phrase "calm water"?

Yes, if you intend to convey a sense of hidden danger or deceptiveness beneath the surface, rather than genuine peace. Consider alternatives that hint at underlying tension or uncertainty in such cases.

What does "calm water" typically symbolize in literature?

"Calm water" often symbolizes peace, tranquility, and reflection. It can also represent a period of respite before a storm or a challenge.