rushing water

USAGE SUMMARY

"rushing water" is a correctly used phrase in written English.
You can use it to describe the movement of water that is moving quickly, or as a metaphor for something that's happening quickly. For example, "The clock was rushing water; every second felt like an hour."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Strangers streamed past me like rushing water.

The New York Times

/ To the rushing water say: I am".

The New Yorker

We hear birds and the rushing water of a creek.

The New York Times

For a second, all was silent, except for the sound of rushing water somewhere up ahead.

The New Yorker

The job consisted of dumping food from plates and trays into a vat of rushing water.

The New Yorker

What beauty Mr. Munch finds between the sheltering sky and rushing water.

The New York Times

Oil spread over the surface of the rushing water and soon erupted in a spectacular fire.

The New Yorker

He was jostled awake about 8 p.m. by the sound of rushing water.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

Beyond the Clans' territories lies a mountain range, inhabited by the Tribe of Rushing Water.

Wikipedia

Originally, many small groups of wild cats from the Tribe of Rushing Water live in the forest.

Wikipedia

For example, the Tribe of Rushing Water, which believes in different spiritual ancestors than the Clans, is introduced in Moonrise.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "rushing water" to vividly describe scenes involving rivers, waterfalls, or floods, enhancing the reader's sensory experience.

Common error

Avoid using "rushing water" metaphorically when simpler, more direct comparisons like "quickly" or "rapidly" would be clearer and more effective.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "rushing water" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a specific type of water movement characterized by speed and force. Ludwig provides numerous examples illustrating this usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Wiki

12%

Science

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "rushing water" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun phrase that effectively describes rapidly moving water. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is generally correct and versatile. It appears most commonly in news and media contexts, serving to create vivid imagery. While its core meaning is straightforward, writers should avoid overuse in metaphorical contexts where more direct language would be preferable. The phrase's neutral formality makes it appropriate for a wide range of writing styles. Overall, "rushing water" is a reliable and descriptive phrase for enhancing clarity and impact in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

flowing water

Emphasizes the continuous movement of water in a steady stream.

rapid current

Focuses on the swiftness and force of the water's movement.

torrential stream

Highlights a powerful and abundant flow of water.

white water

Specifically describes turbulent water, often in rapids.

cascading water

Suggests water falling or flowing in a series of steps.

swift stream

Highlights the speed and smoothness of the water's movement.

gushing water

Implies a sudden and forceful outpouring of water.

tumbling water

Describes water moving chaotically and unpredictably.

surging flow

Focuses on the powerful and increasing volume of water.

onrushing water

Emphasizes the forward momentum and unstoppable nature of the water.

FAQs

How can I use "rushing water" in a sentence?

You can use "rushing water" to describe the sound and sight of a fast-moving river, as in, "The sound of "rushing water" filled the valley".

What words can I use instead of "rushing water"?

Consider using alternatives like "flowing water", "rapid current", or "torrential stream" depending on the specific context you want to convey.

Is it correct to use "rushing water" to describe something other than water?

While primarily used for actual water, "rushing" can metaphorically describe something moving quickly. However, "rushing water" itself is rarely used metaphorically and is best reserved for describing the physical phenomenon.

What is the difference between ""rushing water"" and "running water"?

"Rushing water" implies a greater speed and force than "running water", which can describe a gentler flow such as tap water or a small stream.