a spirited pace

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a spirited pace" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a lively or energetic speed, often in the context of walking, running, or engaging in an activity. Example: "The team set off on their hike at a spirited pace, eager to reach the summit before sunset."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

The first half was played at a spirited pace with Dayton forcing play with speed.

The New York Times - Sports

D'Antoni was known for his offensively slanted teams that ran at a spirited pace.

The New York Times

Yesterday, sitting last after You and Raging Fever had set a spirited pace, she circled the field under Jose Santos and drew away to a two-and-a-quarter-length victory over You.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

When the first drops fell, whites at the roadside cheered (a Southern adage states that "a nigger won't stay out in the rain"), but it soon became apparent that, even over hilly country, the procession was going at a more spirited pace than ever.

The New Yorker

EXTRA POINTS The injured receiver Santonio Holmes went through a spirited pregame workout at a pace that seemed to undermine his declaration last Monday that "right now, I can't run".

The New York Times - Sports

Dialogues between the piano line and the orchestra had the accents of a spirited give and take, and Mr. Goode's pacing and balance were impeccable.

The New York Times - Arts

He is a spirited downhill writer, capable of creating energy by virtue of his own pace and verve, and that is certainly the case here.

The New York Times - Books

After accepting a spirited ovation, Williams said, "I know I'm moving slower than my normal pace, but I just got out of jail about thirty-five minutes ago".

The New Yorker

In his match report for The Independent, Tim Collings wrote that City "played with a width, verve and pace which embarrassed County" and called it "a professional job by a spirited and swift team".

Wikipedia

A spirited correspondence followed.

The New Yorker

She gives a spirited performance.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing an event or activity with "a spirited pace", ensure that the context provides supporting details showcasing the energy and enthusiasm implied by the phrase.

Common error

While "spirited" often implies enthusiasm, consider whether it unintentionally masks a lack of control or focus. Ensure the "pace" is productive and directed, not just frenetic energy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a spirited pace" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb. It describes the manner in which an action is performed, indicating liveliness and energy. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Wiki

13%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Science

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a spirited pace" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that describes something done with energy and enthusiasm. As indicated by Ludwig AI, it is primarily found in news and media contexts. While the phrase is versatile, consider its slightly informal tone when choosing the appropriate register for your writing. Remember to ensure context provides supporting details to showcase the implied energy. For alternatives, consider using phrases like "a brisk tempo" or "a vigorous stride". Despite its correct usage, it's a relatively rare phrase, so be mindful of clarity and impact in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a brisk tempo

Replaces 'pace' with 'tempo', focusing on the speed of an activity or movement.

a lively rhythm

Substitutes 'pace' with 'rhythm', emphasizing the patterned movement.

a vigorous stride

Changes both 'spirited' to 'vigorous' and 'pace' to 'stride', focusing on walking or running with energy.

an energetic gait

Replaces 'spirited' with 'energetic' and 'pace' with 'gait', specifically referring to the manner of walking.

a rapid clip

Uses 'rapid' instead of 'spirited' and 'clip' in place of 'pace', indicating swift movement.

a quick march

Specifies 'march' instead of 'pace', describing a fast, rhythmic walk.

a fast tempo

Simply focuses on a faster tempo.

a rapid speed

Focuses on speed.

an accelerated rate

Emphasizes the increasing rate or speed.

a swift progress

Highlights the quick advancement or development.

FAQs

How can I use "a spirited pace" in a sentence?

You can use "a spirited pace" to describe the lively and energetic speed at which something is done, such as "The team completed the project at "a spirited pace", showcasing their enthusiasm and efficiency".

What's a good alternative to "a spirited pace"?

Depending on the context, alternatives to "a spirited pace" include "a brisk tempo", "a lively rhythm", or "a vigorous stride".

Is "a spirited pace" formal or informal?

"A spirited pace" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, though it leans towards a slightly more descriptive or literary style rather than strictly formal business writing.

What does it mean to do something at "a spirited pace"?

To do something at "a spirited pace" means to perform the action with energy, enthusiasm, and quickness. It suggests a lively and engaged approach.