sprinkle with water

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sprinkle with water" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts related to cooking, gardening, or any activity where adding moisture is necessary. Example: "To keep the plants healthy, make sure to sprinkle with water every morning."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

Sprinkle with water if dry.

The New York Times - Style

If it's too dry, sprinkle with water.

The New York Times - Style

Sprinkle with water to make damp.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

These toys, sold under brand names including Aqua Dots and Aqua Beads, contain packets of brightly colored beads that children arrange into mosaics, then sprinkle with water; the beads then stick together in as little as 10 minutes to form durable artworks.

The New York Times

Sprinkle with water.

WikiHow

Sprinkle with water, one tablespoon at a time.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

Entry into the mandala is called kanjō (Sanskrit: abhishekha), an initiation ceremony involving sprinkling with water.

Encyclopedia Britannica

One problem was that beads manufactured with it tended to swell when sprinkled with water, posing a choking hazard.

The New York Times

In the large front yard, Chung had planted lemon trees and a tomato patch, which he sprinkled with water recycled from the shower.

The New Yorker

He said that Moose Enterprise came to him nearly two years ago with samples of Japanese-made beads for children that also stick together when sprinkled with water.

The New York Times

The ice is sprinkled with water to aid the running of the stones, which gives them their famous (sort of famous) roar.

The Guardian - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "sprinkle with water" in cooking recipes, specify the quantity or desired effect (e.g., "sprinkle with water until dough is just moist").

Common error

Avoid excessive application when you "sprinkle with water". It should be a light, even distribution, not a soaking.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sprinkle with water" functions primarily as a verb phrase, indicating the action of applying water in a scattered or light manner. Ludwig AI confirms the acceptability and common usage of this phrase, evidenced by numerous examples across diverse sources.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Wiki

28%

Science

16%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

8%

Formal & Business

8%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "sprinkle with water" is a common and grammatically correct verb phrase used to describe the action of lightly applying water. Ludwig AI provides examples from various contexts, including news, wikis, and scientific articles, demonstrating its versatility. While alternatives like "spray with water" or "mist with water" exist, the best choice depends on the specific context and desired effect. Remember to avoid overwatering, as the goal is a light, even distribution. The phrase is suitable for neutral registers but can be adapted for more formal settings with precise language.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

spray with water

This alternative suggests a slightly more forceful application of water compared to sprinkling.

mist with water

This implies a very fine application of water, creating a misty effect.

lightly water

A shorter, more direct way to express the action of sprinkling with water, suitable for gardening contexts.

wet lightly with water

This is a more descriptive way of saying "sprinkle with water", emphasizing the light wetting action.

dampen with water

This focuses on the effect of making something slightly damp through the application of water.

douse with water

This suggests a more generous application of water, potentially soaking the subject.

apply water sparingly

Highlights the careful, controlled application of water, similar to sprinkling but more deliberate.

shower with water

Similar to spray, but indicates an evenly dispersed application, as if with a shower.

scatter water over

This emphasizes the distribution of water across a surface, similar to sprinkling.

trickle water onto

Describes a gentle flow of water, different than the dispersed application of sprinkling.

FAQs

How can I use "sprinkle with water" in a sentence?

You can use "sprinkle with water" in contexts such as gardening ("Sprinkle the seeds with water after planting"), cooking ("Sprinkle the dough with water to help it rise"), or cleaning ("Sprinkle the clothes with water before ironing").

What is a good alternative to "sprinkle with water"?

Depending on the context, you could use "spray with water", "mist with water", or "lightly water" as alternatives to "sprinkle with water".

Is it better to "sprinkle with water" or "soak with water"?

The choice between "sprinkle with water" and "soak with water" depends on the desired effect. "Sprinkle with water" implies a light application, while "soak with water" suggests a thorough saturation. Choose the phrase that best fits the intended outcome.

What does it mean to "sprinkle with water" in a ritual context?

In a ritual context, to "sprinkle with water" often symbolizes purification or blessing, as seen in some religious ceremonies where objects or individuals are "sprinkled with holy water".