river

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "river" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a large natural stream of water flowing in a channel to the sea, a lake, or another river. Example: "The Amazon River is one of the longest rivers in the world."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Travel

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

The throngs that had flocked to the river Lagan on Sunday were far greater than the numbers involved in real life street fighting at the edge of the Catholic enclave of Short Strand last Monday and Tuesday.

The Guardian

"It is as if you walk by a river and see a child being pulled away by the current and think: 'I'll let the child drown because then the other kids will know that they shouldn't fall into the river.

The Guardian

Or try river cruise camping, where you sail by day in a small Skellig vessel and pitch your tent each night at campsites bordering the river.

The Guardian - Travel

Explore the area by foot or on the river or take a short drive to Southwold or Dunwich.

The Guardian - Travel

With eyes watering in the sharp wind, it was a relief to shelter under a high bank by the river, where dog violet, barren strawberry and thyme clung to the crumbly debris.

The Guardian

New this year is an adventure in and around the Binevenagh area of outstanding natural beauty, with kayaking on the Roe river and mountain biking on Binevenagh mountain, finishing on the shore below iconic Mussenden Temple.

The Guardian - Travel

From Wentworth, we leave the river and drive through the sandhills to follow the Silver City Highway north to Broken Hill.

The Guardian

The RNLI Alternative Boat Race fundraising event on 10 April takes place the day before the BNY Mellon Boat Race on the same stretch of river.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

river-lodge.com, from $25 a night B&B.

The Guardian - Travel

For the latter, a recommended route is Reims to Ambonnay (12 miles), then continue to Epernay (16 miles), using a great canal - and river-side path.

The Guardian - Travel

Don't they realise that Germany weren't even playing in that game in 1982 (though it's too much to expect ITV to pay attention to anything like the political borders in place at the time)." Facebook Twitter Google plus Share Share this post Facebook Twitter Google plus close 8.38pm BST20:38 — Football Clichés (@FootballCliches) June 30 ,2014 Lee Dixon's gone full River Island tonight.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a specific "river", use its proper name to provide clarity and context. For example, "the Amazon River" instead of just "the river".

Common error

Avoid using "river" interchangeably with terms like "lake" or "sea". A "river" is a flowing body of water, whereas a lake is a still body of water, and a sea is a large body of saltwater.

Linguistic Context

The word "river" primarily functions as a noun, referring to a large natural stream of water. As Ludwig Examples show, it is often used to describe specific geographical features, such as "the Amazon River" or the "River Liffey". Ludwig AI confirms its correct and frequent usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Travel

30%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "river" is a common and grammatically sound noun referring to a natural watercourse. As Ludwig AI indicates, the term is generally used correctly. Its prevalence in diverse contexts like News & Media and Travel, indicates its broad applicability. While synonyms like "watercourse" or "stream" exist, "river" remains the most direct and widely understood term for a significant flowing body of water. Using specific river names enhances clarity, and avoiding confusion with other water bodies is crucial for precise communication. The frequency and varied usage of "river" solidify its importance in both general and specialized discourse.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

watercourse

A more formal and general term for a channel in which water flows.

stream

A smaller, narrower body of flowing water.

waterway

A navigable body of water, often modified for transportation.

tributary

A smaller stream that flows into a larger river.

estuary

The tidal mouth of a large river, where it meets the sea.

brook

A small natural stream of fresh water.

creek

A stream, typically smaller than a river.

channel

The course of a river or stream.

current

A body of water or air moving in a definite direction.

flow

The movement of water in a river.

FAQs

How to use "river" in a sentence?

The word "river" typically functions as a noun. For example: "The Mississippi River flows through several states."

What are some synonyms for "river"?

You can use alternatives like "watercourse", "stream", or "waterway" depending on the specific context.

Which is correct: "the river Nile" or "the Nile river"?

"The Nile River" is generally considered more correct and common in contemporary English usage. The reversed form could appear with other river names or in different regions.

What's the difference between a "river" and a "creek"?

A "river" is generally larger and more substantial than a "creek". A creek is a small stream, often a tributary of a larger river.