Branches sway and creak, yet tree stands tall.

Meaning: The tree's branches move gently in the wind, but the tree itself remains standing.

Choice of Words: Branches are the limbs of a tree that grow out from the trunk. Sway means to move gently from side to side. Creak means to make a harsh, squeaky sound. Yet is used to contrast two ideas. Tree is a tall plant with a trunk and branches. Stands means to be in an upright position. Tall means having a great height.

Alternative Expressions

The tree's branches danced and groaned, but the tree remained firm.

Meaning: This sentence also describes a tree with branches that are moving and making a sound, but the tree itself is still standing strong.

Choice of Words: Danced is a more poetic way to describe the movement of the branches, like they are moving gracefully. Groaned is a more dramatic way to describe the sound of the branches creaking, like they are in pain. Remained means to stay in the same place or condition, like the tree staying upright. Firm means to be strong and not easily moved, like the tree.

The tree's limbs flapped and complained, but the tree held its ground.

Meaning: This sentence also describes a tree with branches that are moving and making a sound, but the tree itself is still standing firm.

Choice of Words: Limbs is another word for branches. Flapped is a more informal way to describe the movement of the branches, like they are flapping in the wind. Complained is a more humorous way to describe the sound of the branches creaking, like they are complaining about the wind. Held means to keep something in a certain position, like the tree holding its ground. Ground means the surface of the earth, like the ground that the tree is planted in.

Related Expressions