“flow”

To fall or pour downward in a rushing, tiered succession.

“The mountain meltwater cascaded over dark granite into the valley below.”

Best for: Strong visual writing, nature or data imagery, slightly elevated prose

A state of continuous, unsettled movement or change.

“The city was in constant flux, its skyline reshaping itself every decade.”

Best for: Abstract or conceptual writing, science, philosophy, punchy editorial

Moving swiftly and freely through a channel or body.

“Adrenaline was coursing through her before she even reached the door.”

Best for: Visceral, physical, or emotional prose; works well inside action sentences

To move with a smooth, wavelike rising and falling motion.

“The tall grass undulated across the hillside like a breathing, golden sea.”

Best for: Descriptive literary prose, landscape or body writing, slow rhythmic scenes

The gradual outward streaming or discharge of something, especially fluid or time.

“He watched the efflux of years drain the urgency from old ambitions.”

Best for: Rare, formal, or philosophical writing; poetic when applied to time or loss

To pour or rush forth in a controlled, channeled torrent.

“Rain sluiced off the awning and hammered the empty street below.”

Best for: Gritty, atmospheric, or industrial writing; punchy and concrete in effect