Gushing: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is used when someone is showing an excessive or overly enthusiastic admiration. It often has a negative connotation and can suggest that the admiration is insincere or exaggerated.

• She was gushing about his new book as if it was the best thing ever written

This word is used when someone speaks or writes about something with great enthusiasm or admiration. It can sometimes imply a bit of exaggeration but usually in a positive sense.

• The critics are raving about the new play that just opened downtown

This word is used to express approval or admiration for someone or something, typically in a formal or public manner. It has a positive connotation and implies sincerity.

• The teacher praised the students for their hard work on the project

This term is neutral and used when someone shows respect or warm approval for someone or something. It's suitable for expressing genuine appreciation.

• I really admire her dedication to her work

Use 'gushing' when describing something flowing out rapidly and plentifully, often used for liquids or emotions. It can be used positively or negatively depending on the context.

• The water was gushing out of the broken pipe.
• She was gushing with excitement after winning the award.

The term 'spout' is suitable for describing something flowing out forcefully and steadily, often through a narrow opening. It can also be used to describe someone speaking at length, usually in a tiresome or repetitive way.

• Water spouted from the fountain.
• He kept spouting statistics during the entire meeting.

'Stream' is best used to describe a continuous flow of liquid, data, or even people. It implies a steady, ongoing movement.

• A stream of water flowed down the hillside.
• She watched a steady stream of emails come into her inbox.

The word 'surge' is ideal for describing a sudden, powerful forward or upward movement, often used for waves, crowds, or energy. It can have a dramatic or intense connotation.

• There was a surge of people heading to the exits.
• The wave surged against the rocks with great force.