Noun Phrase
/luːs ˈsɛdɪmənts/
Meaning: The term "loose sediments" refers to unconsolidated materials such as sand, silt, clay, or gravel that have not been compacted into solid rock layers. These sediments can be found in various environments, including riverbeds, beaches, and deltas.
Frequency of Use: "Loose sediments" is a term frequently used in geological, environmental, and sedimentological contexts. It tends to be more common in written contexts, particularly in scientific literature, reports, and discussions regarding geology, soil science, and ecology.
Example Sentences:
1. The riverbank was comprised of loose sediments that made it difficult for the engineers to construct a stable foundation.
Русский перевод: Берег реки состоял из рыхлых осадков, что затрудняло инженерам строительство стабильного фундамента.
Loose sediments can easily be washed away during heavy rainfall, leading to erosion and sediment transfer.
Русский перевод: Рыхлые осадки могут легко смываться во время сильного дождя, что приводит к эрозии и переносу осадков.
Scientists often analyze loose sediments to understand past environmental conditions and geological events.
Русский перевод: Ученые часто изучают рыхлые осадки, чтобы понять условия окружающей среды и геологические события в прошлом.
While "loose sediments" itself is not commonly used in idiomatic expressions, related terms and phrases can be explored. Here are some relevant examples:
"To be on shaky ground"
This idiomatic expression refers to a situation that is unstable or uncertain, similar to how loose sediments can lead to unstable structures.
Он находился на шатком основании, когда решил рискнуть всем.
He was on shaky ground when he decided to risk everything.*
"To wash away"
Literally refers to the action of water removing loose sediments, but idiomatically can mean to eliminate or erase something.
Все его усилия были смыты прочь, когда он потерял работу.
All his efforts were washed away when he lost his job.*
"To dig deeper"
Often used metaphorically to suggest that one should investigate further, much like examining the layers of sediments.
Чтобы понять проблему, нам нужно копнуть глубже.
To understand the problem, we need to dig deeper.*
The word "loose" comes from the Old English "lēas," which means "not firmly fixed." The word "sediment" comes from the Latin "sedimentum," meaning "something that settles." Combined, "loose sediments" implies unconsolidated materials that are not firmly in place.
Synonyms:
- Unconsolidated materials
- Deposits
- Alluvium
- Detritus
Antonyms:
- Solid rock
- Compact soil
- Consolidated sediments