a slightly slower

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a slightly slower" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when comparing the speed of two or more things, indicating that one is marginally less fast than the other. Example: "The new model is a slightly slower version of the previous one, but it offers better fuel efficiency."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Lifestyle

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

53 human-written examples

She remains so, if at a slightly slower speed.

The New York Times - Magazine

But two new categories of Red 2 would be treated on a slightly slower timetable.

The Guardian

It's a slightly slower way of cooking, but it stops the fillets falling apart.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The disease progressed at a slightly slower rate in those taking the drug, researchers concluded.

The New York Times

The domestic economy still appears to be growing, if at a slightly slower pace.

The New York Times

Sunday circulation at 553 newspapers fell at a slightly slower pace, 4.5 percent, the figures showed.

The New York Times

Frank Ursomarso, a car dealer with many franchises in Wilmington, Del., said he had noticed a slightly slower tempo lately.

The New York Times

By the time she left office, that decline had continued - albeit at a slightly slower pace, down to 15.18%.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

The bolt'n'tumble breakneck nature of what was is now a slightly slower habitation of lives lived to their edges.

Huffington Post

Select a slightly slower shutter speed than you normally would.

WikiHow

I know that a slightly slower tempo can drastically heighten the mystery of "The people that walked in darkness".

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a slightly slower", ensure the context provides a clear point of comparison. For instance, specify what the subject is slower than to give the phrase context and make its meaning explicit.

Common error

Avoid using "a slightly slower" when the difference in speed is significant. This phrase implies a marginal difference, so using it in cases of substantial speed reduction would be misleading.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a slightly slower" functions as an adjectival modifier, specifically used to describe a noun by indicating a marginal reduction in speed or pace. Ludwig shows this usage across various contexts, highlighting its role in making comparisons.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

35%

Lifestyle

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a slightly slower" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe a marginal difference in speed or pace. As Ludwig AI confirms, it functions as an adjectival modifier and is used across various contexts, including news, science, and lifestyle. To ensure clarity, use the phrase in contexts where a direct comparison is apparent. Be mindful not to overstate the difference in speed, as "a slightly slower" implies a subtle reduction. While the phrase can be employed in several settings, it's seen most frequently in News & Media and Science. By understanding its nuances and usage, you can confidently incorporate "a slightly slower" into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

marginally slower

Emphasizes the small degree of difference in speed.

a tad slower

Uses a more informal term "tad" to indicate a small difference.

somewhat slower

Indicates a moderate decrease in speed.

a bit slower

A common, slightly less formal way to express a small reduction in speed.

slightly less rapid

Replaces "slower" with "less rapid" maintaining the meaning with different wording.

fractionally slower

Highlights the minimal difference in speed.

a shade slower

Similar to "a tad slower" but slightly more descriptive.

minimally slower

Focuses on the slight degree of reduction in speed.

a touch slower

Another way to describe a very small amount of slowness.

imperceptibly slower

Suggests the difference in speed is hard to notice.

FAQs

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

You can use "a slightly slower" to compare the pace or speed of two things, implying a minor difference. For example, "The second version ran at "a slightly slower" pace than the original version".

What can I say instead of "a slightly slower"?

You can use alternatives like "a bit slower", "somewhat slower", or "marginally slower" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "a slightly slow" instead of "a slightly slower"?

While "slow" and "slower" are related, "a slightly slower" is generally more appropriate when comparing two things. "A slightly slow" might describe something that is slow in general, without direct comparison.

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

"A slightly slower pace" indicates a small difference in speed, while "a much slower pace" suggests a more significant and noticeable reduction in speed.