in different waters

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in different waters" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used metaphorically to indicate being in a different situation or context, often implying unfamiliarity or a change in circumstances. Example: "After years of working in finance, she found herself in different waters when she decided to pursue a career in environmental science."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

Prada and America One were, quite literally, sailing in different waters.

The New York Times - Sports

New fish, raised in hatcheries, were released in different waters, Mr. Nesler said, not where the remnant populations were.

The New York Times

Hillier added that pay packages that are common in the PLC arena are not acceptable in the Co-operative world - Sutherland should accept that he's "swimming in different waters".

The Guardian - Business

Filmed entirely on and under the water, the episodes focus on different species in different waters -- sea bass in New Jersey; shark and flounder in Massachusetts; striped bass in Manhasset Bay; fluke in Montauk.

The New York Times

The results revealed that GABI yields significantly more accurate chlorophyll concentrations (with uncertainties less than 13.5%) and remains more stable in different waters types when compared with the blue-green waveband ratios and red-NIR algorithms.

Advances in Space Research

In the end, however, measuring the oxygen consumption by the same microbial community in the different water samples was probably more illustrative than comparing growth rates of different communities in different waters.

Plosone

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

Every generation swims in different water.

The New York Times

MG was analyzed in different water samples (urban, mineral and river waters) using the proposed method.

Journal of Industrial and Engineering Chemistry

The plants of the experiment showed significantly different appearances in different watering regimes.

Journal of Environmental Management

Thus, this sensor was used successfully for the para-nitrophenol determination in different water samples.

Talanta

The sensor was applied to chlorine determination in different water samples.

Sensors and Actuators B: Chemical

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in different waters" to emphasize a significant change in context or situation, especially when the new environment requires a different approach or understanding. For example: "After the merger, the company found itself "in different waters", requiring a new strategic direction."

Common error

Avoid using "in different waters" when simply referring to minor adjustments. The phrase implies a fundamental shift, not just a slight modification. Overusing it in trivial situations can dilute its impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in different waters" functions primarily as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to describe the situation or environment in which an action occurs. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

43%

News & Media

43%

Formal & Business

14%

Less common in

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in different waters" serves as a potent metaphor for describing situations where individuals or entities find themselves in unfamiliar territory, requiring adaptation and new approaches. Ludwig confirms that the expression is grammatically sound and usable in both news and scientific articles.

While its frequency is classified as uncommon, the phrase is versatile and adds depth to writing when conveying significant shifts in context. It is advisable to employ this phrase when highlighting the novelty and potential challenges of a new environment, as Ludwig indicates. However, it's important to avoid diluting its impact by using it for minor adjustments rather than substantial transformations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in uncharted waters

Implies exploring unknown and potentially risky areas.

in unfamiliar territory

Emphasizes the unfamiliarity and potential challenges of the new situation.

in a new environment

Focuses on the novelty of the surroundings or circumstances.

in a different setting

Highlights a change of location or context.

in altered circumstances

Indicates a change in the conditions or situation.

in another world

Suggests a completely different and possibly surreal experience.

in a changed landscape

Focuses on how the overall situation has been transformed.

in distinct conditions

Highlights the unique and separate nature of the circumstances.

in separate realities

Emphasizes fundamentally different perceptions or experiences.

in varying environments

Suggests different contexts, perhaps with an element of cyclical variation.

FAQs

How can I use "in different waters" in a sentence?

You can use "in different waters" to describe a situation where someone is facing new and unfamiliar challenges. For example, "After switching careers, she found herself "in different waters" and had to learn new skills."

What does "in different waters" mean?

The phrase "in different waters" is a metaphor that means being in a new or unfamiliar situation, often one that requires a different approach or set of skills.

What are some alternatives to "in different waters"?

Some alternatives to "in different waters" include "in uncharted territory", "in a new environment", or "in a different setting". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "in different waters" in formal writing?

Yes, "in different waters" can be used in formal writing, but it is best suited for situations where you want to convey a sense of unfamiliarity or a significant shift in circumstances. Consider your audience and the overall tone of your writing.