a bit slower

USAGE SUMMARY

'a bit slower' is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when you are referring to a rate, speed, or intensity of something being less than before. For example: "Can you drive a bit slower, please? I'm feeling a bit car sick."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"If not, a bit slower".

The New Yorker

He might be a bit slower.

Independent

She was apparently a bit slower to embrace Jeremy's path.

The New York Times

"Some are a bit slower and are unsure.

The New York Times - Sports

But things may be a bit slower in Mississippi.

The New York Times

He is a bit slower, but no less tenacious.

The New York Times - Sports

So yes, things will be a bit slower.

Independent

So today things have been a bit slower.

The Guardian

This technique made my autofocus much more robust, though a bit slower.

Stanford University

His tempo for "Un dì felice" has a gentle gait, a bit slower than Toscanini's.

The New York Times - Arts

"Un dì felice" is quite a bit slower and much freer.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a bit slower", consider the context. Is it about physical speed, processing time, or the pace of an event? Ensure the phrasing aligns with the intended meaning for clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "a bit slower" when a more significant difference in speed or pace is intended. For substantial variations, consider using phrases like "much slower" or "significantly slower" to accurately reflect the magnitude of the change.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a bit slower" functions as an adverbial modifier, indicating the degree to which something is slower. It modifies verbs or clauses to express a slight reduction in speed, pace, or tempo, as evidenced by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

71%

Science

12%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a bit slower" is a versatile and commonly used adverbial modifier indicating a slight reduction in speed or pace. According to Ludwig, its grammatical status is correct, and its primary function is to convey a gentle request or observation. It's generally neutral in register, making it suitable for various contexts, particularly in News & Media. When using this phrase, consider the context and the degree of difference you want to convey to ensure clarity. For more significant differences, alternative phrases like "much slower" may be more appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a little slower

Synonymous and interchangeable with the original phrase.

slightly slower

Indicates a minimal decrease in speed or pace.

somewhat slower

Implies a moderate reduction in speed.

a touch slower

Indicates a very slight decrease in pace.

marginally slower

Suggests an almost imperceptible difference in speed.

not quite as fast

Emphasizes the difference in speed by focusing on the lack of speed.

less rapid

Uses a more formal tone to convey a slower pace.

at a reduced speed

Highlights the action of reducing speed.

moving less quickly

Describes the slower pace in terms of movement.

at a more leisurely pace

Suggests a relaxed and unhurried tempo.

FAQs

How can I use "a bit slower" in a sentence?

You can use "a bit slower" to describe a decrease in speed, pace, or tempo. For example, "Could you please drive "a bit slower"?" or "The economy is growing "a bit slower" than expected."

What phrases are similar to "a bit slower"?

Similar phrases include "slightly slower", "somewhat slower", "a little slower", or "not quite as fast". The choice depends on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "a bit slower"?

Yes, "a bit slower" is grammatically correct and commonly used in English. Ludwig AI also confirms its validity and widespread usage.

What's the difference between "a bit slower" and "much slower"?

"A bit slower" indicates a slight decrease in speed or pace, while "much slower" implies a more significant or noticeable reduction. The choice between them depends on the degree of difference you wish to emphasize.