like a coiled pipe

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "like a coiled pipe" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is tightly wound or shaped in a spiral form, often in a metaphorical sense. Example: "The tension in the room was palpable, coiling around us like a coiled pipe, ready to burst at any moment."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Tankless systems provide heated water from a coiled pipe located in a furnace.

WikiHow

So Otherlab, which received $250,000 from ARPA-E, proposes a "conformable tank," meaning a coiled pipe that would store gas in a flat area.

The New York Times

The CSC is a particular kind of MSTC, conceived as an exposed free standing structure that embeds a coiled pipe heat exchanger in a massive-concrete matrix.

Solar Energy

The "sour beer," known as "wash," is then run successively through a pair of heated stills, bulbous at the bottom, narrow at the top, with a swan's neck extending down to a coiled copper pipe in a tank of cold water that converts the resulting vapor back into liquid.

The New York Times - Food

The Dean problem of steady viscous flow through a coiled circular pipe is studied numerically.

Journal of Computational Physics

Water that is passed through the coiled pipe is rapidly heated and available for immediate use.

WikiHow

This design by ARB Geowell (2014) eliminates the need for an assembly of smaller pipe in favor of coiled pipe halves that must be joined with a molded transition from kidney pipe to 1 1/2-in.

Geothermal Energy

The gas-liquid mass transfer of oxygen has been examined experimentally in a helically-coiled pipe using an optical colorimetric method.

Chemical Engineering Science

The coiled pipe cleaner will give the impression of a baby's body beneath the cloth you'll add shortly.

WikiHow

Full of sound like a coiled shell.

The Guardian - Books

My story unrolled itself like a coiled carpet.

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "like a coiled pipe" when you want to convey a sense of contained energy, potential force, or complex structure within a confined space. It's particularly effective in technical or mechanical contexts, or when describing abstract concepts with a mechanical metaphor.

Common error

Avoid using "like a coiled pipe" in contexts where the image doesn't logically fit. For instance, describing emotions as "like a coiled pipe" might be confusing unless you clearly establish a connection to pressure or constraint.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "like a coiled pipe" primarily functions as a simile, comparing a subject to the physical characteristics of a coiled pipe. This comparison is used to evoke imagery of complexity, containment, or potential energy. Ludwig's examples show that this phrase is versatile, fitting various descriptive needs.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

35%

News & Media

35%

Wiki

30%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "like a coiled pipe" serves as a simile, drawing a comparison to the structure and potential of a coiled pipe. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and can be used to convey images of complexity, containment, or potential energy. While it is relatively uncommon, its usage spans across scientific, news, and general contexts. When using this phrase, ensure the context aligns with the imagery of a coiled pipe, avoiding misuse in situations where the metaphor doesn't logically connect. Consider alternatives such as "resembling a spiraled tube" or "similar to a tightly wound spring" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

resembling a spiraled tube

Emphasizes the physical similarity to a spiraled or helical tube.

similar to a tightly wound spring

Focuses on the tension and potential energy aspect.

akin to a helical coil

Uses more technical terms to describe a similar shape.

like a rolled-up hose

Draws a comparison to a common object with a coiled shape.

resembling a twisted conduit

Highlights the twisted and channeling nature.

like a serpentine configuration

Emphasizes the winding and turning aspect.

analogous to a wound cable

Compares to a cable tightly wrapped around itself.

similar to a labyrinthine duct

Highlights the complex and maze-like nature.

akin to a spiraled thread

Emphasizes the fine and delicate coiling.

resembling a convoluted tube

Highlights the complex and intricate twisting.

FAQs

How can I use "like a coiled pipe" in a sentence?

You can use "like a coiled pipe" to describe something that is tightly wound or has a complex, spiraling structure, such as "The heating element was shaped like a coiled pipe to maximize heat transfer".

What are some alternatives to "like a coiled pipe"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "resembling a spiraled tube", "similar to a tightly wound spring", or "akin to a helical coil".

Is it appropriate to use "like a coiled pipe" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "like a coiled pipe" might be more suitable for technical or descriptive writing rather than highly formal contexts. Consider the audience and choose the most precise and appropriate language.

What does it mean when something is described as being "like a coiled pipe"?

It typically implies that the object or system has a complex internal structure, potentially capable of holding or releasing something, similar to how a coiled pipe might contain or channel fluid or energy.