ebb and flow

USAGE SUMMARY

"ebb and flow" is a correctly written phrase that can be used in written English.
It can be used to refer to situations in which things come and go in waves, or in which something fluctuates. For example: "The ebb and flow of fashion trends is always changing."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"Ebb and Flow," works by Joseph Fucigna.

The New York Times

Ebb and Flow are no more.

The New York Times - Science

They understand the ebb and flow.

The New York Times

"There's an ebb and flow.

The New York Times - Travel

Ebb and flow, the match in miniature.

The Guardian - Sport

Everything else seems to ebb and flow.

The Guardian - Music

"There's always been an ebb and flow.

The Guardian

RESTAURANTS, like great seas, ebb and flow.

The New York Times

Its ebb and flow is so unpredictable.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"I could sense its ebb and flow.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

It's an ebb-and-flow phenomenon.

Princeton University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "ebb and flow" to describe situations with a natural, rhythmic fluctuation, such as market trends or emotional states. This phrase is particularly effective when you want to convey a sense of predictability and balance in change.

Common error

Avoid using "ebb and flow" in contexts where the fluctuation is abrupt or chaotic. The phrase implies a smooth, cyclical movement, not a sudden or erratic change. Ensure the context aligns with the imagery of tides receding and returning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ebb and flow" functions primarily as a noun phrase or verb phrase, often used to describe cyclical patterns or fluctuations. As demonstrated by Ludwig AI, it effectively captures the essence of things that periodically increase and decrease.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

5%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "ebb and flow" is a grammatically correct and widely used phrase that effectively describes cyclical changes and fluctuations. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, its frequency across reputable sources underscores its versatility and acceptance in formal, neutral, and even scientific contexts. The phrase carries a connotation of rhythmic balance, making it suitable for depicting natural or predictable variations. Common contexts include news, formal writing, and scientific discourse, while related phrases like "wax and wane" or "rise and fall" offer nuanced alternatives. When using "ebb and flow", ensure the context involves a smooth and recurrent change, aligning with the image of tides receding and returning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

wax and wane

Describes a gradual increase and decrease, closer in meaning to "ebb and flow" but often applied to abstract concepts like popularity or influence.

cyclical changes

Highlights the recurring nature of change, broader than the specific imagery of tidal movement in "ebb and flow".

rise and fall

Suggests a sequence of ascent and descent, lacking the continuous, cyclical implication of "ebb and flow".

fluctuations

Refers to irregular variations or changes, lacking the tidal implication of "ebb and flow".

oscillations

Implies a regular back-and-forth movement, but can apply to diverse physical phenomena not necessarily related to tides.

ups and downs

Emphasizes alternating periods of success and failure, differing from the rhythmic nature of "ebb and flow".

periodic variations

Focuses on changes occurring at regular intervals, whereas "ebb and flow" does not necessarily imply strict periodicity.

comings and goings

Focuses on arrivals and departures, missing the sense of rhythmic movement inherent in "ebb and flow".

alternating pattern

Describes a sequence of two or more things recurring in turn, a more general term compared to "ebb and flow".

yo-yo effect

Conveys a rapid, repetitive up-and-down movement, typically referring to situations like weight loss and gain; more specific than "ebb and flow".

FAQs

How can I use "ebb and flow" in a sentence?

You can use "ebb and flow" to describe situations that fluctuate rhythmically, like "The "ebb and flow of the market"" or "The "ebb and flow of emotions"".

What's a good synonym for "ebb and flow"?

Alternatives include "wax and wane", "rise and fall", or "fluctuations", depending on the specific context you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "ebb and flow" in formal writing?

Yes, "ebb and flow" is suitable for formal writing. It's a recognized idiom that adds a touch of imagery and sophistication when describing cyclical changes or fluctuations.

What does "ebb and flow" mean in the context of relationships?

In relationships, "ebb and flow" describes the natural fluctuations in intimacy, communication, and emotional connection. It suggests that there will be times of closeness and times of distance, which is a normal part of any long-term relationship.