Slowly but surely

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Slowly but surely" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe a process that is progressing gradually but steadily towards a goal. Example: "Although the project is taking longer than expected, we are making progress slowly but surely."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Slowly but surely it's falling.

The Economist

Slowly but surely, that's changing.

The New York Times

Slowly but surely, the shape becomes clear.

The New Yorker

Slowly but surely, the songs started coming.

The Guardian - Music

Slowly but surely, Team U.S.A. is learning.

The New York Times

Slowly but surely Joseph found allies.

The New York Times - Books

Slowly but surely, communism drew him.

The Economist

Slowly but surely, the front began emptying.

The New York Times

Slowly, but surely, things are improving.

The Guardian

Slowly but surely he was being tempted.

The Guardian

Slowly but surely we're starting to play really well".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "Slowly but surely" to express confidence in eventual success, even when progress is not immediately apparent.

Common error

Avoid using "Slowly but surely" when a rapid or immediate result is expected. It's best suited for situations requiring patience and persistence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "Slowly but surely" functions primarily as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to describe the manner in which an action is performed or a result is achieved. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Formal & Business

16%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

3%

Reference

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "Slowly but surely" is a common and grammatically correct adverbial phrase used to describe gradual but consistent progress. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's suitable for various contexts, particularly in news and media. While alternatives like "gradually but steadily" or "step by step" exist, "Slowly but surely" is effective for conveying reassurance and encouraging perseverance. Remember to use it when you want to highlight consistent progress over time, even when the pace is not rapid, and avoid it when immediate results are expected.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Gradually but steadily

Emphasizes the incremental and consistent nature of the progress.

Little by little

Highlights the small increments of progress being made.

Bit by bit

Similar to 'little by little,' stressing the accumulation of small advancements.

Step by step

Focuses on the methodical and sequential approach to achieving a goal.

Inch by inch

Implies very small increments of progress, often against resistance.

Progressively

Focuses on the continuous and ongoing nature of the improvement.

At a measured pace

Highlights the controlled and deliberate speed of progress.

Over time

Emphasizes the role of time in achieving the desired outcome.

In due course

Indicates that progress will happen at an appropriate or expected time.

In the fullness of time

Suggests that complete progress will be achieved eventually, given enough time.

FAQs

How can I use "Slowly but surely" in a sentence?

"Slowly but surely" is used to describe something that progresses gradually but steadily. For example, "Although the project is challenging, we are moving forward "slowly but surely"".

What are some alternatives to "Slowly but surely"?

Alternatives include "gradually but steadily", "little by little", or "step by step". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is "Slowly but surely" grammatically correct?

Yes, "Slowly but surely" is a grammatically sound and widely accepted adverbial phrase. It follows standard English grammar rules.

In what situations is it appropriate to use "Slowly but surely"?

It is suitable for situations where progress is being made incrementally over time, requiring patience and persistence. Avoid using it when immediate results are expected.