like a coiled spring

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "like a coiled spring" is a valid part of a written sentence.
You can use it to describe something or someone that appears to be ready to spring into action or respond quickly. For example: "The athlete crouched into position, like a coiled spring, ready to race."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

32 human-written examples

Mr. Levkovich argues that the sectors most affected by the credit crisis — like bank, brokerage firm and housing stocks — have already suffered, clearing the way for them to rebound like a "coiled spring" in the second half of this year.

The New York Times

The home secretary, David Blunkett, said last week that society was like a "coiled spring".This is tightened by the third worry: terrorism.

The Economist

But Americans can buy Hot Spring, a radiator that looks like a coiled spring, and it will work even with steam heat, a company representative told me.

The New York Times

He looks like a coiled spring.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

You'll be on the start-line feeling like a coiled spring ready for action.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The UK's economy is like a coiled spring, ready to go.

The Guardian - Business

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

28 human-written examples

"Alcohol chronically consumed in high quantities is like pressing down on a coiled spring," said Dr. Haroutunian.

The New York Times

How is a doughnut like a coffee cup, but different from a coiled spring?

Science Magazine

Christine, a coiled spring of unmet need, responds in kind: to some degree, Mme.

The New York Times

The table's surface is slightly deformed by the weight of the object, causing the surface to exert a force analogous to that exerted by a coiled spring.

Britannica

Leading the way was our guide, Daniel, a small, agile man with the restrained but explosive energy of a coiled spring.

The New York Times - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "like a coiled spring" to vividly describe a state of readiness, potential energy, or suppressed emotion. It adds a dynamic and visual element to your writing.

Common error

While effective, "like a coiled spring" is a common metaphor. Avoid using it too frequently in your writing, or it will lose its impact. Consider alternative expressions or original comparisons to convey a similar meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "like a coiled spring" functions primarily as a simile, comparing a subject to a coiled spring to illustrate a state of tension, potential energy, or readiness. Ludwig AI confirms this usage across numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Encyclopedias

14%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Science

9%

Formal & Business

7%

Academia

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "like a coiled spring" is a common simile used to describe a state of tension, suppressed energy, or readiness for action. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread usage across various contexts, including news, encyclopedias, and general writing. While grammatically correct and effective, it's essential to use the phrase judiciously to avoid overusing a common cliché. The phrase functions to add vivid imagery to your writing, and its neutral tone makes it adaptable for many situations. Consider alternatives if you find yourself relying on this metaphor too frequently.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ready to pounce

This alternative captures the sense of imminent action or sudden release, similar to a spring.

brimming with energy

Focuses on the abundance of energy contained, analogous to the potential energy in a spring.

on the verge of exploding

Emphasizes the high level of tension and the likelihood of a sudden outburst.

about to snap

Implies a breaking point, where pent-up stress is about to be released.

tense and ready

Highlights the combination of contained tension and preparedness for action.

wound up tight

Suggests a state of high tension and readiness, akin to a tightly wound spring.

primed for action

Focuses on the state of being fully prepared and ready to initiate something.

charged and waiting

Conveys the sense of stored energy and anticipation.

restrained power

Highlights the control over significant force, much like a spring holding potential energy.

ready to unleash

Emphasizes the imminent release of contained force or energy.

FAQs

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

Use "like a coiled spring" to describe someone or something in a state of tension, anticipation, or readiness for sudden action. For example, "The athlete crouched, like a coiled spring, ready to explode off the starting blocks."

What's a good alternative to "like a coiled spring"?

Consider alternatives such as "ready to pounce", "brimming with energy", or "tense and ready" depending on the specific context.

Is "like a coiled spring" too cliché?

While it is a common metaphor, "like a coiled spring" can still be effective if used sparingly and in contexts where it vividly conveys the intended meaning. Overuse can diminish its impact.

What does it mean to describe someone as being "like a coiled spring"?

To be described as "like a coiled spring" means someone is holding back energy, tension, or emotions, suggesting they are about to be released in a sudden or forceful manner.