water level

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "water level" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the height of water in a particular context, such as in bodies of water, reservoirs, or during discussions about flooding or drought. Example: "The water level in the lake has risen significantly due to the recent rainfall."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Mosquitoes multiply as the water level rises.

The Economist

The water level this year is low.

The New York Times

You're sitting at about water level.

The New York Times

The bridge is practically water level".

The New York Times

Your feet are below water level.

The New York Times

"[The water level] used to be much higher".

The Guardian

"It got worse as the water level dropped.

The New York Times

The headlights, at water level, cast an eerie light.

The New Yorker

Pumps work to keep the water level down.

The New York Times

Did the water level change as the ice cubes melted?

The New York Times

The water level at Venice would, at times, be lower".

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing changes in the "water level", specify the timeframe and location for better clarity. For example, "The water level in Lake Superior has decreased by 6 inches over the past month."

Common error

Avoid using "water level" interchangeably with terms like "water table" or "sea level" if they don't fit the specific context. "Water table" refers to the underground water level, while "sea level" refers to the average height of the ocean's surface.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "water level" primarily functions as a noun phrase. It commonly acts as a subject or object, referring to the height of a body of water or a specific point related to water. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Science

33%

Wiki

19%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

1%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "water level" is a common and grammatically sound noun phrase used to describe the height of water in various contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread use. It's employed across diverse domains like News & Media, Science and Wiki, serving the purpose of conveying precise information about water conditions. While generally neutral in register, specifying timeframe and location enhances clarity when describing changes. It's important not to confuse it with related terms like "water table" or "sea level" if they don't fit the context. Alternatives include "water height" or "water depth", depending on the intended emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

water height

Uses a different noun to refer to the vertical distance from the surface of the water to a specific point.

water depth

Focuses on the distance from the surface to the bottom of a body of water.

fluid level

Generalizes the measurement to any fluid, not specifically water.

stage of water

Refers to a specific level or condition of water, often in a river or stream.

sea level

Specifically refers to the average height of the sea's surface.

flood stage

Indicates a water level high enough to cause flooding.

groundwater level

Refers to the level of water beneath the Earth's surface.

high water mark

The highest level water has reached, often used to indicate past flood events.

tide level

Specifically refers to the height of the tide.

water table

Describes the upper surface of groundwater or the saturated zone.

FAQs

How is "water level" measured in a reservoir?

The "water level" in a reservoir is typically measured using gauges or sensors that track the height of the water surface relative to a fixed reference point. This data helps manage water resources and monitor capacity.

What are some common causes of fluctuating "water levels" in rivers?

Fluctuating "water levels" in rivers can be caused by seasonal changes in rainfall, snowmelt, dam operations, and changes in land use that affect runoff. Understanding these factors is crucial for flood management and water supply planning.

How does climate change affect "water levels" in coastal areas?

Climate change can affect "water levels" in coastal areas through rising "sea level" due to thermal expansion and melting glaciers, increasing the risk of coastal erosion and flooding. These changes have significant impacts on coastal ecosystems and infrastructure.

When should I use "water height" instead of "water level"?

While "water level" and "water height" are often interchangeable, "water height" might be preferred when emphasizing the vertical distance or measurement, whereas "water level" often refers to a state or condition.