a slow decrease

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a slow decrease" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a gradual reduction in quantity, size, or intensity over time. Example: "The data shows a slow decrease in the population of the species over the last decade."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Some expected a slow decrease in unemployed workers, steady long-term inflation expectations, productivity gains and "one-time price increases".

The New York Times

During that period the virus continues to replicate, and there is a slow decrease in the CD4 count (the number of helper T cells).

Encyclopedia Britannica

"The recovery may actually be slower than usual, leading to a slow decrease in unemployment," said Olivier Blanchard, director of the I.M.F.'s research department, at a news conference at the fund's headquarters in Washington.

The New York Times

"The recovery may actually be slower than usual, leading to a slow decrease in unemployment," said Olivier Blanchard, director of the I.M.F. research department, at a news conference at the fund's headquarters in Washington.

The New York Times

However, a slow decrease of methane conversion and syngas yield caused by carbon deposition was observed.

Chemical Engineering Science

These events were characterized by a slow decrease in amplitude with a monotonic vibration.

Earth, Planets and Space

The decrease is more rapid in ZB structure while a slow decrease is documented in RS structure.

Journal of Theoretical and Applied Physics

We observed a slow decrease of the impedance in all the electrodes, except in the wire electrode.

Medical Engineering & Physics

The decrease is more rapid in rock salt structure while a slow decrease is documented in CsCl structure.

Journal of Theoretical and Applied Physics

Unlike UN projections, the team expects a slow decrease in world population to 8.4 billion by 2100.

Science Magazine

The TACs for the injured region showed a slow decrease in binding from the maximum uptake to the end of the acquisition.

EJNMMI Research

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a slow decrease", ensure the context clarifies what is decreasing and the timeframe over which it occurs. This provides clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "a slow decrease" when the reduction is actually rapid or immediate. Ensure the adjective "slow" accurately reflects the rate of change.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a slow decrease" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes the action of something gradually diminishing. Ludwig examples show its wide applicability across diverse fields.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

75%

News & Media

16%

Encyclopedias

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Social Media

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a slow decrease" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to depict a gradual reduction. According to Ludwig, it effectively conveys the gradual decline in various contexts, most notably in science, news media, and encyclopedias. While the phrase is generally neutral to formal, ensuring it accurately reflects the pace of change is crucial. Alternatives like ""a gradual decline"" and ""a steady reduction"" offer similar meanings, though with slightly different connotations. The Ludwig AI confirms the phrase's usability and provides ample real-world examples demonstrating its application.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a gradual decline

Emphasizes the gradual nature of the reduction, similar to the original phrase but with a focus on the process.

a steady reduction

Highlights the consistent and unwavering nature of the decrease.

a progressive diminution

More formal, suggesting a step-by-step lessening in size or importance.

a creeping decrement

Implies a slow and almost unnoticeable decline.

a measured fall

Suggests a carefully controlled or predictable decrease.

a sluggish descent

Conveys a slow and heavy downward movement or reduction.

a tapering off

Indicates a gradual reduction, often used in the context of quantities or effects.

a protracted waning

Emphasizes the long and drawn-out nature of the decline.

a gentle lessening

Highlights the mildness and lack of abruptness in the reduction.

an attenuated drop

Suggests a weakened or lessened decrease.

FAQs

How can I use "a slow decrease" in a sentence?

You can use "a slow decrease" to describe a gradual reduction in something over time. For instance, "The study showed "a slow decrease" in unemployment rates over the past year."

What are some alternatives to "a slow decrease"?

Alternatives include "a gradual decline", "a steady reduction", or "a progressive diminution", depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

Is there a difference between "a slow decrease" and "a slight decrease"?

"A slow decrease" emphasizes the time it takes for the reduction to occur, while "a slight decrease" focuses on the magnitude of the reduction. They describe different aspects of the change.

When is it appropriate to use "a slow decrease" instead of "a rapid decline"?

Use "a slow decrease" when the reduction happens gradually over an extended period. "A rapid decline" is more appropriate when the reduction is sudden and happens quickly.