a slightly tired

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a slightly tired" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe someone who is feeling somewhat fatigued, either physically or mentally. For example, "Although he had been working all day, he still managed to smile and show up to the meeting with a slightly tired but positive attitude."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

At its best it can be highly satisfying, but it's inconsistent and sometimes has a slightly tired feeling.

The New York Times - Food

Both sides have talented but largely misfiring batting line-ups and, for that reason, a total of around 140 might be enough today on a slightly tired pitch.

The Guardian - Sport

This was not a bad Spurs performance, just a slightly tired, heavy-legged one, epitomised by Dele Alli's miss near the end.

The Guardian - Sport

And to some, civic discord along race or ethnic lines is a slightly tired story line.

The New York Times

The house also has a slightly tired kitchen, a formal dining room, a screened porch and a two-car attached garage.

The New York Times

If you're a woman, wear less makeup than usual and don't wash your hair to give yourself a "slightly tired" look.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

We zigzag through streets, before darting into the courtyard of a magnificent, if slightly tired, art nouveau apartment block, with wrought iron balconies and a Parisian-style cupola.

The Guardian - Travel

If a guy has been waiting for a plane, he will be slightly tired, bored or stoned....Go for the one who is the hottest, the straightest and the one who has a seat next to him.

WikiHow

It's slightly like walking into a party that's half done, where everyone's a bit drunk and even slightly tired... but straight from the station there were coaches to the Ritz, and as showtime nears, the energy is cranking up.

The Guardian - Music

But be prepared to be whizzed through your dinner like ewes through a sheep-dip, to be served slightly tired and formulaic dishes by swishy French waiters, and to get a ghastly shock if you take your eye off the ball at the ordering stage.

Independent

Guardian unofficial scorecard: Khan 10-9 Collazo 4.32am BST Khan vs Collazo: Round Six The pace picks up: Collazo looking slightly tired, but he lands a nice combination of left uppercut and right hook.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a slightly tired" to describe a state of mild fatigue or weariness without exaggerating the feeling. It's suitable when the tiredness is noticeable but not debilitating.

Common error

Avoid using "a slightly tired" when the subject is clearly experiencing severe exhaustion. Choose a more appropriate descriptor like "exhausted" or "completely drained" if the situation warrants it.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a slightly tired" functions as an adjectival modifier, describing a noun (often a person or object) as being in a state of mild fatigue or diminished energy. As noted by Ludwig AI, this usage is grammatically correct and well-supported by examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

30%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a slightly tired" is a grammatically sound and relatively common way to describe a state of mild fatigue. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is correct and usable in written English. It is predominantly found in news and media contexts, but also appears in wiki and formal business settings. When using this phrase, ensure that it accurately reflects the degree of fatigue being described, avoiding overstatement or understatement. Consider using synonyms such as "somewhat fatigued" or "a little weary" to fine-tune the nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a touch tired

Implies a very slight degree of tiredness.

a tad tired

Similar to "a touch tired", indicating a minimal level of fatigue.

somewhat fatigued

Focuses more directly on the feeling of fatigue.

a little weary

Emphasizes mental or emotional exhaustion more than physical.

mildly exhausted

Highlights the depletion of energy.

somewhat drained

Focuses on the feeling of having lost energy or resources.

not quite fresh

Highlights the absence of vigor or alertness.

slightly enervated

A more formal and less common way to express a lack of energy.

a bit run-down

Suggests a decline in overall health and energy levels.

somewhat sleepy

Indicates a mild desire to sleep.

FAQs

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

You can use "a slightly tired" to describe someone's appearance or feeling when they are experiencing mild fatigue. For example, "After the long flight, she looked "a slightly tired" but happy to be home."

What's a good alternative to "a slightly tired"?

Alternatives include "somewhat fatigued", "a little weary", or "a touch tired", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "I'm slightly tired"?

Yes, saying "I'm slightly tired" is perfectly acceptable and grammatically correct. It indicates that you are experiencing a mild degree of fatigue.

What does it mean when someone says they are "slightly tired"?

It means they are experiencing a mild level of fatigue or weariness, but not to the point of being completely exhausted. They might still be able to function normally, but with reduced energy or enthusiasm.