cascade

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "cascade" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a large, often intricately shaped arrangement of objects, such as a fountain of water or of multiple tiers of rocks. For example, "The grand hall was filled with several cascades of sweet-smelling roses."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The Iris sandal, handwoven in leather macramé, the classic tan shade set off by a cascade of yellow, red, green and blue resin beads, is what every modern-day Apfel will be wearing in Ibiza this summer.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"Cascade hydro presents unique pricing challenges due to the complexities associated with operating the plant.

The Guardian - Business

Flashes and a cascade of brilliantly coloured lights.

The Guardian

Alongside is a cascade of astonishing, record-breaking figures: gate receipts, TV money, accredited journalists, worldwide audiences.

The Guardian - Sport

The president's proposed deal with Iran will likely lead to a cascade of nuclear proliferation in the Middle East, and it could force Israel to take bold action to defend itself, making war with Iran even more likely".

The Guardian

There is a moment when the young cheerleader, with whom Lester has decided he is in love, opens her blouse and scores of rose petals cascade out.

The Guardian - Film

In May the EU and the IMF bailed out Greece to the tune of €110bn and announced a €750bn shield to protect the euro against a cascade of sovereign insolvencies around the Mediterranean.

The Guardian - Business

We will look to improve our internal processes and engage more closely with the regulator in future on matters relating to cascade hydro pricing in order to ensure we are complying with our licence conditions at all times," he said.

The Guardian - Business

Then, as the rain began to cascade, Forrest escaped the attention of three Dundee players to drive into the box but his shot with the outside of his right foot was saved by Bain.

The Guardian - Sport

Minutes earlier his makeshift team had surrendered to a seventh straight defeat and he had been forced to retreat deep inside the home dugout during a second half in which stewards permitted two hysterical fans stationed near the technical area to subject him to a cascade of abuse.

The Guardian - Sport

Without their support he'll cascade downwards through the diminishing strata of celebrity, through bad sitcoms and reality shows and shopping-centre openings, until he hits rock bottom and ends up successfully running for London mayor.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "cascade" to vividly describe a series of events or elements that unfold rapidly and continuously, especially when emphasizing a flowing or cascading effect.

Common error

Avoid using "cascade" to describe static arrangements or situations lacking a sense of flow or sequential progression. The word implies movement and a descending progression, which should be evident in its application.

Linguistic Context

The word "cascade" primarily functions as a noun, referring to a waterfall or a series of things falling or progressing in a similar manner. Ludwig examples show its use in describing events, figures, and changes that unfold in sequence.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "cascade" is a versatile word used to describe a flowing series of events or a plentiful outpouring, with News & Media being its most frequent context. As Ludwig AI confirms, the word is grammatically correct and frequently used in the English language. It functions mainly as a noun, suggesting a dynamic and visually descriptive element. The examples confirm its prevalence in describing both physical phenomena, like waterfalls, and abstract concepts such as a rapid series of occurrences. When employing "cascade", ensure that the context involves movement or sequential unfolding to accurately convey its intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

waterfall effect

Directly references the visual metaphor of a waterfall, emphasizing the impact and flow.

domino effect

Emphasizes the sequential and inevitable consequences of an initial action, much like a cascade.

chain reaction

Highlights the cause-and-effect sequence of events, similar to a cascade of consequences.

series of events

Focuses on the sequential nature of the events, removing the visual metaphor of a waterfall.

succession of occurrences

Emphasizes the temporal sequence of events, similar to a cascade but less visually descriptive.

rapid flow

Highlights the speed and continuous movement, akin to water cascading down.

stream of

Highlights the continuous and flowing nature, similar to a cascade of information or resources.

overflowing abundance

Stresses the plentiful nature of something, analogous to a cascade of resources or opportunities.

outpouring of

Emphasizes the sudden and abundant release, analogous to a cascade of emotions or support.

abundance of

Focuses on the large quantity or volume, removing the sense of downward flow.

FAQs

How can I use "cascade" in a sentence?

You can use "cascade" to describe a waterfall, a series of events that unfold rapidly, or an abundant flow of something. For example, "The waterfall formed a beautiful "cascade" of water" or "The news triggered a "cascade of resignations"".

What are some alternatives to the word "cascade"?

Depending on the context, alternatives to "cascade" include "series of events", "succession of occurrences", "rapid flow", or "overflowing abundance".

Is it correct to use "cascade" to describe abstract concepts?

Yes, "cascade" can be used metaphorically to describe abstract concepts, such as a "cascade of emotions" or a "cascade of ideas", where the flow and abundance aspects are emphasized.

What is the difference between "cascade" and "stream"?

"Cascade" implies a downward, often abrupt flow or sequence, similar to a waterfall. "Stream", on the other hand, suggests a more continuous and steady flow, without necessarily the same sense of descent or rapid unfolding. A "stream of information" is ongoing, while a "cascade of information" happens quickly and intensely.