stop the leak

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "stop the leak" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it in contexts where you are addressing a problem related to a leak, whether it be physical (like a water leak) or metaphorical (like a leak of information). Example: "The team worked tirelessly to stop the leak in the pipeline before it caused any major damage."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

That might stop the leak.

The New York Times

Replacing the seal should stop the leak.

The New York Times

The most important task is to stop the leak.

The New York Times

Replacing the cooler line should stop the leak.

The New York Times

Replacing the sealing cap should stop the leak.

The New York Times

Hyundai will replace the affected calipers, which should stop the leak and improve stopping.

The New York Times

A new differential with a raised breather covered by the breather boot should stop the leak.

The New York Times

"But that doesn't change what we want to do — which is to stop the leak".

The New York Times

It could take three months for BP to drill relief wells to stop the leak.

The New York Times

The company is currently preparing plans for two ways to stop the leak, it said.

The New York Times

Replacing the bushing, seal and constant velocity joint housing should stop the leak.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "stop the leak" both literally (physical leaks) and figuratively (information leaks), depending on the context.

Common error

While "stop the leak" focuses on immediate containment, remember that addressing the root cause prevents future leaks. For example, instead of only patching a pipe, investigate why it corroded in the first place.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "stop the leak" functions primarily as a call to action, urging the cessation of an unwanted outflow, whether literal (like a pipe leak) or figurative (like an information breach). Ludwig's examples showcase this across varied contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

84%

Science

8%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "stop the leak" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that signifies the urgent need to cease an unwanted outflow. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and applicability across various contexts, primarily in news and scientific domains. While alternatives like "seal the leak" or "plug the leak" offer similar meanings, "stop the leak" is versatile enough for both literal and figurative use. Remember to consider addressing the underlying issue, not just the immediate symptom of the leak. Using precise language will ensure clarity in technical or urgent situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

seal the leak

Focuses on the action of closing the opening through which something is escaping.

plug the leak

Emphasizes filling the gap or hole causing the leakage.

contain the leak

Highlights preventing the spread of whatever is leaking.

stem the flow

Indicates reducing or halting the continuous outflow of something.

halt the leakage

Formal way to express ceasing the action of leaking.

resolve the leak

Focuses on finding a solution to permanently fix the source of leakage.

fix the breach

Addresses the opening or rupture that's allowing something to escape.

remedy the leak

Suggests applying a treatment or solution to correct the leak.

control the escape

Emphasizes the act of managing and limiting the escaping substance.

curtail the outflow

Suggests reducing the amount of liquid or gas that is flowing out.

FAQs

How can I use "stop the leak" in a sentence?

You can use "stop the leak" in sentences like, "The engineers worked tirelessly to "seal the leak"" or "It's crucial to "contain the leak" before it causes further damage".

What are some alternatives to "stop the leak"?

Alternatives include phrases like "plug the leak", "seal the leak", or "stem the flow", each offering a slightly different nuance to the meaning.

Is it grammatically correct to say "stops the leak"?

Yes, "stops the leak" is grammatically correct. You might use it when describing a process or a device: "This new sealant automatically "seals the leak"".

What's the difference between "stop the leak" and "fix the breach"?

"Stop the leak" generally refers to the immediate action of preventing further leakage, while "fix the breach" implies a more permanent solution that addresses the underlying cause of the leak.