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.
If needed, tread water and call for help.
From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 14, 2026
Until a definitive end to the conflict emerges, Bitcoin is likely to tread water.
From Barron's • Apr. 15, 2026
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
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
It got kind of exhausting to tread water or balance on tiptoes while the rest of them planted their feet on the bottom.
From "Keeping Pace" by Laurie Morrison
