stopping the flow

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "stopping the flow" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where you are referring to halting or interrupting a continuous process or movement, such as in discussions about water, information, or communication. Example: "The sudden blockage in the pipe is stopping the flow of water to the entire building."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The challenges to stopping the flow are immense.

The New York Times

Gazprom could retaliate by stopping the flow of gas destined for Ukraine.

The New York Times

Rather than stopping the flow of immigrants, the measures may be forcing smugglers onto uncharted, unmarked routes.

The New York Times

"Kris has been a true leader on securing our borders and stopping the flow of illegal immigration into this country.

The New Yorker

His was perhaps the most hazardous duty and the most important, too: stopping the flow of illegal weapons".

The New York Times

China National Petroleum Corporation has said that stopping the flow of oil through the Friendship Pipeline might damage the pipeline.

The New York Times

When the cuff is inflated, it compresses a large artery in the arm, momentarily stopping the flow of blood.

The New York Times - Science

This would also show that stopping the flow — rather than protecting his job — is his singular aim.

The New York Times

The nucleation process was improved by stopping the flow prior to the measurement, thus avoiding the need of sulphate addition.

Analytica Chimica Acta

Wanting to show the reliability of his backpack unit, Qadri squeezed a thumb and forefinger onto the tube, stopping the flow of medication.

The New York Times

Representative Johnson said Mr. Archer "understood the urgency of this matter and is really concerned about stopping the flow of jobs and capital out of the country".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "stopping the flow", ensure the noun following 'flow' is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. For instance, specify "stopping the flow of information" rather than just "stopping the flow".

Common error

Avoid using "stopping the flow" when you intend to convey slowing down or regulating. "Stopping the flow" implies a complete cessation, not a reduction.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "stopping the flow" functions as a gerund phrase, acting as a noun. It often serves as the subject or object of a sentence, describing the act of halting a continuous movement or progression, as seen in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Science

15%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

HuffPost

6%

Los Angeles Times

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "stopping the flow" is a grammatically correct and very common gerund phrase used to describe the act of halting a continuous process or movement. According to Ludwig, it is particularly prevalent in News & Media and Science contexts, indicating a neutral register suitable for various communication styles. When using this phrase, clarity is crucial—specify the noun following 'flow' to avoid ambiguity. Remember, it signifies complete cessation, not mere reduction. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase's correctness and widespread use.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

halting the progression

Focuses on the cessation of forward movement, similar to stopping a flow but with more emphasis on forward momentum.

curtailing the movement

Highlights reducing or restricting movement, implying less complete cessation than "stopping the flow".

impeding the current

Stresses the act of hindering a current, often referring to a more gradual slowing down rather than an abrupt stop.

obstructing the passage

Emphasizes the act of creating a barrier to movement, focusing on a physical or metaphorical obstacle.

stemming the tide

Suggests resisting a powerful force or trend, akin to stopping a flow but with a sense of ongoing effort against something strong.

arresting the advance

Implies halting something that is moving forward, usually with a sense of authority or force.

suppressing the surge

Focuses on controlling a sudden increase or upwelling, similar to stopping a flow but specifically addressing a rapid escalation.

checking the influx

Highlights controlling the arrival or entry of something, often used in contexts of immigration or investment.

regulating the stream

Implies controlling or managing a continuous flow, often suggesting a more measured approach than simply stopping it.

terminating the transmission

Focuses on the end of a communication, often in a technical context, for example, signal or data.

FAQs

What does "stopping the flow" mean?

"Stopping the flow" means to halt or interrupt a continuous movement or progression of something, whether it's physical (like water) or abstract (like information).

What are some alternatives to "stopping the flow"?

You can use alternatives like "halting the progression", "impeding the current", or "stemming the tide", depending on the specific context.

Is "stopping the flow" formal or informal?

"Stopping the flow" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, as shown by its presence in news articles and casual discussions.

When is it appropriate to use "stopping the flow"?

It is appropriate to use "stopping the flow" when you want to emphasize a complete interruption or cessation of something that was previously moving or progressing, for example "curtailing the movement" or "obstructing the passage".