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.
It is unclear how long Burnham can tread water without calling an election and enacting the bold plans he has presented.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 1, 2026
A safe self-rescue includes being able to tread water for 30 seconds, children being able to float on their back for 60 seconds and swim 15m to exit the water unaided.
From BBC ● Aug. 11, 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
Until further policy pronouncements on Iran are made, expect oil prices to tread water.
From Barron's ● Jan. 13, 2026
When I came to the place where the willows arched over a deep pool in the swift-running brook, I paused to tread water.
From "Ophelia" by Lisa Klein
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