Cascading: meaning, definitions and examples

Describes a series of events or items arranged in a sequence, often involving a downward flow. It is frequently used in technical or descriptive settings, such as software development, natural phenomena, or organizational processes.

• The cascading water created a beautiful waterfall effect.
• The software updates were cascading through the system.

Describes a smooth, continuous, and often gentle movement, similar to the way a liquid moves. It is commonly used in relation to water, speech, or design.

• The river was flowing gently through the valley.
• Her dress had a beautiful, flowing design.

Indicates something or someone moving downward due to gravity. It can also be used metaphorically to describe declines in status, health, or numbers. This word often carries a more natural or uncontrolled connotation.

• Leaves were falling from the trees.
• Stock prices have been falling steadily.

Refers to movement from a higher place to a lower one. It is often used in contexts involving physical movement, directions, or hierarchical arrangements.

• She watched the airplane descending to the runway.
• The hikers were descending the mountain trail.

Indicates forward motion or development, often involving gradual change or improvement. It is commonly used in contexts related to social movements, technology, or processes.

• The company is known for its progressive approach to employee welfare.
• He showed progressive improvement in his skills over time.

Use in scenarios involving a series of events that happen sequentially, often referring to a falling effect, like water cascading down a waterfall.

• The cascading failures in the system led to a complete shutdown.
• The cascading effect of the economic crisis affected businesses worldwide.

Often used to describe an action that causes a particular event or reaction to begin, especially as an immediate consequence. It can sometimes have a negative connotation if the result is undesirable.

• The loud noise triggered the alarm system.
• His comment ended up triggering a heated debate among the team.

Suited for situations where something, such as an idea, information, or wave, is being transmitted from one place or person to another.

• The scientist studied how waves propagate through different mediums.
• They propagated the new policy through the company using emails and meetings.

Best for describing something that moves over a larger area or among more people, often used for physical movements or the dissemination of information.

• The fire was rapidly spreading through the forest.
• The rumor about the new project spread quickly among the employees.