tread water

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Fennell’s eye for image-making is her greatest directorial strength; it’s what keeps her films afloat even when their screenplays struggle to tread water.

From Salon • Feb. 14, 2026

“And a more diverse set of sectors is helping broader averages like the S&P 500 tread water while near- and intermediate-term Tech dynamics play out,” he added.

From Barron's • Feb. 10, 2026

The following year, a transitional team lost seven of 12 Tests as they continued to tread water in attack.

From BBC • Feb. 6, 2026

The Colts, expected to tread water at best in 2025, are openly talking about playoffs and championships.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 10, 2025

If he found himself unexpectedly overboard, Richard Parker would simply tread water, climb back aboard and make me pay the price for my treachery.

From "Life of Pi" by Yann Martel