water roll

USAGE SUMMARY

'water roll' is a correct and usable phrase in written English, however the meaning of the phrase depends largely on the context in which it is used.
For example, you could use the phrase 'water roll' to describe a rolling wave in the ocean: "The sun sparkled off the water roll as it slowly receded from the shore."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

"The other has the same grove of trees, but with a fogger in it, where smaller drops of water roll out like fog".

The New York Times

"You dip them in hot water, then cold water, roll them in flour, fry with butter and serve with parsley sauce.

The Guardian

Lifting my rod and making a long pull with my line hand, I thought I was starting a deep water roll cast.

The New York Times - Sports

Wet the edges of the pastry with water, roll out the remaining pastry and place over the filling, then press and crimp to seal.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The exhibition shows the Raeburn recycling of a traditional guardsman's felt into a bomber jacket and an Italian treatment of wool that makes water roll off the surface as if it were Teflon.

The New York Times

I looked up just in time to see a pod of dolphins break the water, roll across the surface not 50 yards away and glide under again, and then rise a few more times before their leisurely ballet disappeared in the morning mist.

The New York Times - Travel

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

Steel, water, Rolls-Royce and British Airways were all privatised.

The Guardian - Film

The pool water rolls, a small domestic tidal wave sweeps from one end to the other.

The New Yorker

He could not stop the spin as the helicopter fell toward the water, rolled over and sank upside down.

The New York Times

A set of waves, six foamy walls of water, rolled in as Mr. Scattini strapped into his board.

The New York Times

When a drop of water rolls across the tiny points, it picks up the poorly attached dirt and carries it away.

The New York Times - Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "water roll", consider the context to ensure clarity. It can refer to a physical action of water, like a wave, or metaphorically, such as letting criticism "roll" off one's back.

Common error

Avoid using "water roll" in contexts where the meaning is ambiguous. Ensure it's clear whether you're referring to a physical phenomenon or a figurative expression.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "water roll" functions as a noun phrase or a verb phrase depending on context. Ludwig and its examples showcase its use in describing physical phenomena (waves) and metaphorical resilience, consistent with Ludwig AI's assessment.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Wiki

24%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Encyclopedias

6%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "water roll" is grammatically correct but somewhat uncommon. As shown by Ludwig, its usage spans both physical descriptions (waves) and metaphorical expressions (resilience). While acceptable, context is crucial for clarity, with Ludwig AI confirming its varied potential. The prevalence of "water roll" in news and media contexts suggests a neutral register, but more specific alternatives may enhance communication in formal settings. Therefore, consider the intended meaning and audience when choosing to use "water roll".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

water rolling

Similar phrasing, focusing on the action of water rolling.

water's rolling motion

Emphasizes the movement aspect of water.

rolling wave

Specifically refers to a wave's movement.

flowing water

General term for moving water

water cascading

Describes water falling in a rolling way.

water undulation

Uses a more formal term for a wave-like movement of water.

water's surge

Focuses on a sudden increase in water movement.

water laps

Describes water gently hitting something.

water flowing

Simply states that water is in movement

water swirls

Indicates water moving in a circular pattern

FAQs

What does "water roll" mean in a sentence?

The meaning of "water roll" depends on the context. It can describe the physical movement of water, as in a wave, or metaphorically, as in letting criticism "roll" off your back. Ludwig provides several examples to illustrate its varied usage.

How can I use "water roll" metaphorically?

Metaphorically, "water roll" can describe resilience or detachment, similar to the expression "let "water off my back"". It suggests that negative comments or situations do not affect you.

What are some synonyms for "water roll" in the context of waves?

In the context of waves, alternatives to "water roll" include "rolling wave", "flowing water", or "water cascading", depending on the specific type of movement you want to emphasize.

Is "water roll" a common expression?

As per Ludwig, "water roll" is not a very common expression, but it is grammatically correct and understandable. Its suitability depends on the specific context and desired level of formality. Using alternatives might enhance clarity and impact in certain scenarios.