a moderate rate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a moderate rate" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a pace or speed that is neither too fast nor too slow, often in contexts like pricing, growth, or progress. Example: "The company plans to increase production at a moderate rate to ensure quality is maintained."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

What we can say with reasonable certainty is that the economy still appears to be picking up at a moderate rate.

The New Yorker

He said the car was traveling at "a moderate rate of speed," but witnesses estimated it at 40 to 60 miles per hour.

The New York Times

By contrast, East Antarctica is gaining volume, though at a moderate rate that doesn't compensate for the losses on the other side of the continent".

The Guardian

The committee added: "Household spending is expanding at a moderate rate but remains constrained by high unemployment, modest income growth, lower housing wealth and tight credit.

The New York Times

It stated that the growth in household spending had "picked up recently"; in March, such spending was merely "expanding at a moderate rate".

The New York Times

Household spending is expanding at a moderate rate but remains constrained by a weak labor market, modest income growth, lower housing wealth and tight credit.

The New York Times

The company expects "a moderate rate of premium growth" this year after gross premiums fell 4percentt in 2003 following Swiss Life's exit from less-profitable business lines and some markets, the chief executive, Rolf Dörig, said.

The New York Times

In the course of the last three years import prices have been rising again, but at a moderate rate; the increase in 2007 as a whole was only 1.1%.

The Economist

Facebook Twitter Google plus Share Share this post Facebook Twitter Google plus close 10.31am ET15 31 "Economic activity and employment will expand at a moderate rate in this year and the next" and inflation will move back toward 2%," Yellen says.

The Guardian - Business

I'm interested in preserving my assets and having them grow at a moderate rate.

Forbes

First, the regional population has increased at a moderate rate similar to the global population trend.

Progress in Earth and Planetary Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing progress or growth, use "a moderate rate" to convey a sense of stability and sustainability. For example, "The company is expanding at a moderate rate, ensuring long-term viability."

Common error

Avoid using "a moderate rate" when you actually intend to convey a lack of enthusiasm or a subpar performance. "Moderate" implies balance and control, not necessarily a negative connotation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a moderate rate" primarily functions as an adjectival phrase modifying a noun. It describes the degree or pace at which something is happening or progressing, often indicating a balance between extremes. Ludwig AI indicates the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

37%

News & Media

35%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a moderate rate" is a versatile descriptor used to indicate a balanced and controlled pace or degree of change. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely accepted in English writing. Its frequency across news, science, and formal business contexts highlights its broad applicability. When using the phrase, consider the subtle difference between conveying stability versus implying mediocrity. Alternative phrases such as "a steady pace" or "a reasonable speed" can provide nuanced variations depending on the specific meaning you wish to express.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a steady pace

Emphasizes consistency and evenness over time, rather than just a degree of speed.

a reasonable speed

Highlights acceptability and suitability within given constraints or expectations.

a measured tempo

More applicable when referring to the rhythm or pace of an activity or process.

a gradual increase

Focuses on the incremental nature of growth or change, emphasizing the slow and steady progression.

a tempered level

Suggests moderation in terms of intensity or degree, often used for emotions or qualities.

a controlled acceleration

Highlights the management of increasing speed or progress, emphasizing the deliberate aspect.

a sustainable rhythm

Implies that the rate can be maintained over a longer period without causing depletion or burnout.

a balanced progression

Focuses on achieving equilibrium in advancement, ensuring no single aspect outpaces others.

an intermediate velocity

More technical term for speed that lies between extremes.

a medium-level intensity

Suitable when discussing the strength or force behind an action or phenomenon.

FAQs

How can I use "a moderate rate" in a sentence?

You can use "a moderate rate" to describe a speed or pace that is neither too fast nor too slow. For example, "Economic activity is expected to expand at "a moderate rate" this year."

What's the difference between "a moderate rate" and "a slow rate"?

"A moderate rate" implies a balanced and controlled pace, while "a slow rate" suggests a lower speed than desired or expected. The best choice depends on the specific context you wish to convey.

Which is more appropriate: "a moderate rate" or "a high rate"?

The choice between "a moderate rate" and "a high rate" depends on the context. Use "a moderate rate" when you want to describe a balanced and sustainable pace. Use "a high rate" when something is happening quickly. For example, growth can occur at "a high rate", or "a moderate rate".

What can I say instead of "a moderate rate"?

Alternatives to "a moderate rate" include "a steady pace", "a reasonable speed", or "a gradual increase" depending on the context.