a slightly stiff

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a slightly stiff" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that has a minor rigidity or firmness, often in relation to physical objects or even abstract concepts like behavior or style. Example: "The fabric of the shirt is a slightly stiff material, which gives it a structured look."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

He speaks in a slightly stiff, respectful manner that suggests that he's used to conversing with adults.

The New Yorker

Mr. Fabiano, though a slightly stiff stage presence, also sang nimbly and with attractive tone, his voice showing real metal at times.

The New York Times - Arts

There is a virtuoso performance from Rachel Finnegan, making her professional debut as, alternately, an eager Polish journo, a slightly stiff wife and an awkward ingenue.

The Guardian

It had a slightly stiff crispness, whereas the base of a truly exceptional pizza would have a real suppleness, an airiness, a chewy vibrancy of flavour.

The Guardian - Travel

Leaping from character to character — a slightly stiff, self-important Lear; a simpering Regan; a snooty Goneril; a sincere Cordelia — she manages to give each character a distinct voice (the varied accents are impeccable), and she keeps the story in clear focus.

The New York Times

If you're confused, best start with The Hunger Games on Netflix – though the sequel improves significantly on its predecessor, with incoming director Francis Lawrence bringing some gonzo visual flair to the enterprise, and Jennifer Lawrence bending a slightly stiff character to her will this time round.

The Guardian - Film

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

Striking a slightly stiffer tone, the Bush administration warned China that its relationship with the United States was being hurt and that it risked further harm with every day that the crew of an American spy plane remained in detention.

The New York Times

Consequently, a slightly stiffer response of the beam is obtained.

Engineering Structures

The SVT-tuned suspension is said to be a little tighter than in past SVT Focus cars, thanks to a slightly stiffer chassis than in the three-door.

Forbes

You should be using the same action as with a fastball, but with just a slightly stiffer wrist., but with just a slightly stiffer wrist.

WikiHow

When walking on hard surfaces, do not over-extend at your big toe joint or use shoes with a slightly stiffer undersole.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To describe a person's demeanor, "a slightly stiff" suggests formality and reserve, not necessarily negativity. It can provide nuance beyond simple 'formal' or 'reserved'.

Common error

Don't use "a slightly stiff" when "slightly" doesn't adequately reflect the rigidity. If something is considerably rigid, consider alternatives like "moderately stiff" or "quite rigid" to more accurately depict the object or person you're describing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a slightly stiff" primarily functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun. It indicates a mild degree of rigidity or inflexibility, as demonstrated in Ludwig's examples describing fabrics, behaviors, and even food textures.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Wiki

17%

Science

18%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a slightly stiff" is a grammatically sound and usable adjective phrase that conveys a mild degree of rigidity or inflexibility. Ludwig's analysis confirms its correctness and provides a variety of examples demonstrating its usage across different contexts. While not exceedingly common, it appears in reputable sources like The New York Times and The Guardian, making it suitable for both formal and informal writing. When using this phrase, be mindful of accurately representing the degree of stiffness and avoid exaggeration. Consider alternatives like "somewhat rigid" or "a bit inflexible" to further refine your meaning. The phrase's relative infrequency suggests a need for careful consideration of its impact on the reader, ensuring it aligns with the desired tone and precision of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

somewhat rigid

Emphasizes the quality of being not completely flexible or yielding, focusing more on the rigidity aspect.

a bit inflexible

Highlights the lack of flexibility, particularly in behavior or attitude.

somewhat firm

Stresses the quality of being solid and unyielding to a moderate extent.

a little rigid

Indicates a minor degree of inflexibility, either physically or metaphorically.

marginally taut

Focuses on the tension or tightness, suggesting it's only slightly stretched or strained.

somewhat tense

Highlights the quality of being under strain or pressure to a certain degree.

a shade unyielding

Emphasizes the lack of give or compromise, suggesting it's only slightly resistant.

slightly unbending

Focuses on the inability to be bent or changed, but only to a small extent.

a touch inflexible

Indicates a minimal degree of inflexibility, either physically or metaphorically.

somewhat unrelaxed

Stresses the quality of not being fully at ease, exhibiting some level of tension.

FAQs

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

You can use "a slightly stiff" to describe textures, behaviors, or conditions that have a minor degree of rigidity or formality. For example, "The new fabric had a slightly stiff texture", or "His greeting was slightly stiff but polite".

What's the difference between "a slightly stiff" and "a little stiff"?

While both phrases are similar, "a slightly stiff" suggests a more deliberate or noticeable degree of rigidity compared to "a little stiff", which implies a less pronounced quality.

What are some alternatives to "a slightly stiff"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "somewhat rigid", "a bit inflexible", or "somewhat firm" to convey similar meanings with slight variations in emphasis.

Is it appropriate to use "a slightly stiff" in formal writing?

Yes, "a slightly stiff" is generally appropriate for formal writing, especially when describing nuanced qualities. However, ensure the context aligns with the level of formality, and consider more precise vocabulary if necessary.