low tide

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "low tide" is grammatically correct and commonly used in written English.
It can be used to refer to the point at which the sea reaches its lowest level, exposing more of the beach and shoreline. An example sentence using this phrase could be: "The locals knew it was best to visit the beach at low tide to take advantage of the wide expanse of sand."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

"Low tide".

The New Yorker

It was low tide.

The New Yorker

When is low tide?

The New York Times

"It smells like low tide," she said.

The New York Times

We swam mostly at low tide.

The New York Times - Travel

Our first afternoon coincided with low tide.

Independent

Croyde at low tide Biggest wave?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"No, low tide, brother," Mr. Duka said.

The New York Times

Today, its remains rise above the surface at low tide.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

It's low-tide.

Independent

The steely-blue, flat-surfaced Atlantic is beyond the wide low-tide beach.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing coastal activities, specify the tidal state. For example, state "collecting shells is best done at "low tide"" instead of just "collecting shells on the beach".

Common error

Avoid assuming that every beach is suitable for all activities regardless of the tide. Certain activities, like swimming in certain areas, may be dangerous or impossible except at "low tide". Always check tide tables.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "low tide" primarily functions as a noun, often used as a subject or object within a sentence. It represents a specific state of the ocean and is commonly used in descriptions, explanations, and instructions related to coastal environments, as exemplified by Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "low tide" is a grammatically sound and frequently used term, primarily functioning as a noun to denote the lowest level of the sea in a tidal cycle. As Ludwig AI points out, its usage is widespread across diverse contexts, from news reports and scientific publications to general-interest articles. When writing about coastal environments or activities, using precise tidal terms like "low tide" can add clarity and accuracy. Be aware of the subtle differences in meaning between "low tide" and its related phrases like "ebb tide" or "low water", choosing the term that best fits the specific context. Remember to check tide tables for safety!

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ebb tide

Focuses on the receding nature of the tide, synonymous with "low tide" but emphasizing movement.

low water

A more technical term referring to the minimum height of the tide, used interchangeably in many contexts.

tidal ebb

Emphasizes the outward flow of water during low tide, useful when describing the process rather than the state.

receding tide

Highlights the action of the tide going out, suitable when describing the visual change in water level.

neap tide

Refers to tides with the least difference between high and low water, occurring during the first and third quarter moon phases.

lowest tidal point

A more precise way to indicate the exact lowest level reached by the tide.

falling tide

Describes the tide as it is decreasing in height, suggesting an ongoing process.

exposed seabed

Focuses on the result of the low tide: the sea floor that becomes visible.

outward tide

Highlights the movement of the tide away from the shore.

minus tide

Refers to a tide that falls below the average low water mark, often revealing even more of the seabed.

FAQs

How do I correctly use "low tide" in a sentence?

Use "low tide" to describe the time when the sea reaches its lowest level. For example, "We planned our beach walk for "low tide" to explore the tide pools."

What are some synonyms for "low tide"?

Alternatives include "ebb tide", "low water", or "receding tide". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired emphasis.

What's the difference between "low tide" and "high tide"?

"Low tide" refers to the point when the sea is at its lowest level, exposing more of the seabed. "High tide", conversely, is when the sea reaches its highest level, covering more of the shore.

Is it always safe to walk on the beach at "low tide"?

While "low tide" exposes more of the beach, always be aware of your surroundings. Check for potential hazards like slippery rocks, strong currents, or incoming tides, especially in unfamiliar areas.