a bit of a slide

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a bit of a slide" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a minor decline or decrease in performance, quality, or condition. Example: "After a strong start to the season, the team experienced a bit of a slide in their performance, losing several games in a row."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

"We found ourselves in a bit of a slide," said Messier.

The New York Times - Sports

"The last few years have been frustrating and I've taken a bit of a slide, but that happens and I never look back with regrets or hold grudges.

The Guardian - Sport

He said: "It does seem to be a bit of a slide... on different titles people are making different decisions".

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Looking past the fact that this was a ridiculous way to discuss such a nuanced political position, President Trump decided to grade himself on a bit of a sliding scale, blaming the public (and Obama's people) for his C performance and saying that he was really an A student at heart. .

Vice

A bit of a scuffle as Harry Arter slides on Wilfried Zaha.

BBC

As stated before, the guy on the water slide has a bit of a connection to the Percy Jackson books.

WikiHow

If that slide serves as a bit of a wake-up call, it doesn't put the group off their stride for long.

The Guardian - Travel

I think, you know, a lot of girls sometimes struggle with that sliding, that movement becomes a bit of a factor.

The New York Times

A bit of a jerk".

The New Yorker

A bit of a tourist.

BBC

A bit of a worrier.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a bit of a slide" to describe a situation where there's a noticeable but not drastic decline. For example, "The company experienced "a bit of a slide" in profits during the last quarter."

Common error

Avoid using "a bit of a slide" when the decline is significant or catastrophic. Reserve it for situations that are mildly negative or represent a minor setback.

Linguistic Context

Adverbial Modifier: The phrase "a bit of a slide" functions as an adverbial modifier, typically describing the extent or degree of a decline. It modifies a verb or noun, indicating that the decline is not substantial but still noticeable. Ludwig confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Wiki

33%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a bit of a slide" is a phrase used to describe a minor decline or deterioration. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is correct and usable in written English. It is most commonly found in news and media contexts and has a neutral tone. Related phrases include "a slight decline" and "a minor downturn". When using this phrase, ensure that the context involves a genuinely mild decline, as overstating the severity can be misleading. Remember that while acceptable in formal writing, consider using more precise alternatives if the situation warrants it.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a slight decline

Focuses on the gradual decrease or deterioration.

a minor downturn

Emphasizes a temporary reduction or setback.

a small regression

Highlights a return to a previous, less developed state.

a touch of deterioration

Suggests a subtle worsening or decay.

a mild setback

Underscores a temporary obstacle or hindrance.

a gentle descent

Implies a slow and gradual decline.

a moderate dip

Highlights a temporary decrease or reduction.

a fractional weakening

Emphasizes a slight reduction in strength or effectiveness.

a minimal decrease

Focuses on the small amount of reduction.

a hairline fracture

Metaphorically implies a small but potentially significant problem.

FAQs

How can I use "a bit of a slide" in a sentence?

You can use "a bit of a slide" to describe a slight decline in something, such as "The team has experienced "a bit of a slide" in performance recently".

What are some alternatives to saying "a bit of a slide"?

Alternatives include "a slight decline", "a minor downturn", or "a small regression", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "a bit of a slide" in formal writing?

Yes, "a bit of a slide" is generally acceptable in both formal and informal writing, although more formal alternatives might be preferred in certain contexts.

What does "a bit of a slide" imply about the situation?

It implies a mild or gradual decline, suggesting that the situation is not yet critical but warrants attention.