treading water (noun)

1. During the American Civil War, countless soldiers had to rely on treading water to survive after their ships were sunk.

2. In the novel, the protagonist finds solace in treading water, as it becomes a metaphor for their struggle to stay afloat in life.

3. Under the moonlight, the couple shared a passionate moment, their bodies gracefully treading water in sync with their love for each other.

4. The painting depicted a serene scene of swimmers effortlessly treading water, capturing the beauty and calmness of aquatic movement.