Noun
/rʌnɪŋ sænd/
"Running sand" refers to a type of sand that is unstable and can flow or shift easily, often seen in contexts like construction or natural landscapes. This term is commonly used in geology and environmental science. Its frequency of use is moderate, often found in written contexts such as academic papers or reports, but may also appear in oral exchanges during specialized discussions.
"The dunes were formed from running sand that shifted frequently with the wind."
"Дюны образовались из подвижного песка, который часто смещался под воздействием ветра."
"Engineers had to adjust their plans due to the presence of running sand in the foundation."
"Инженерам пришлось скорректировать свои планы из-за наличия подвижного песка в основании."
"Running sand can pose a danger to those unprepared for its shifting nature."
"Подвижный песок может угрожать тем, кто не готов к его изменчивому характеру."
While "running sand" is not commonly part of established idiomatic expressions, the notion of instability and unpredictability can lend itself to figurative language in specific contexts. Here are several examples that incorporate related themes:
"He felt like he was on running sand during the negotiations."
"Он чувствовал себя, как будто стоял на подвижном песке во время переговоров."
"Her plans were slipping through her fingers like running sand."
"Её планы ускользали от неё, как подвижный песок."
"With running sand beneath their feet, they knew they had to act quickly."
"С подвижным песком под ногами они знали, что им нужно действовать быстро."
The term "running sand" combines the adjective "running," which derives from the Old English "rinnan," meaning to flow or glide, and "sand," which originates from the Proto-Germanic *sandą, referring to granular particles. Together, they describe a type of sand that behaves in a manner akin to flowing or shifting.
Synonyms:
- Loose sand
- Frangible sand
- Shifting sand
Antonyms:
- Solid ground
- Stable soil
- Compact sand