as slick as

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as slick as" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe something that is smooth, polished, or clever, often in a positive context. Example: "His presentation was as slick as a professional commercial, capturing everyone's attention immediately."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

That Rove is as slick as an eel.

The New York Times

But for now, this is as slick as it gets.

The New York Times

If only tonight's sound was as slick as their look.

The Guardian - Music

It isn't always as slick as it might sound.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The Yahoo Entertainment iPad app, meanwhile, is about as slick as they get.

The New York Times - Tech

The office of Spectramind in Delhi, for example, is as slick as anything in Silicon Valley.

The Economist

A cold rain made thousands of miles of underplowed side streets as slick as Vaseline.

The New York Times

His jumping was as slick as ever when blowing away the cobwebs recently at Kempton.

The Guardian - Sport

He's emerged bare-chested and as slick as two years ago, more so perhaps.

The Guardian - Sport

Diamond is also resistant to most chemicals and, when polished, as slick as Teflon.

The New York Times

As slick as he is, he might not be able to escape.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "as slick as", consider the object of comparison to enhance the imagery. Common comparisons include "oil", "glass", or specific actions like a "diplomat's dinner party".

Common error

While "as slick as" is generally acceptable, it can sound too informal in academic or highly professional writing. Opt for more precise and formal alternatives like "highly efficient" or "expertly executed" in such situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as slick as" functions as a simile, used to make a comparison emphasizing the smoothness, polish, or cleverness of something. It uses the structure "as + adjective + as + noun" to create a vivid image, as seen in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

95%

Formal & Business

3%

Science

1%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "as slick as" is a simile used to effectively describe something that is impressively smooth, polished, or cleverly executed. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and commonly used, predominantly in News & Media contexts. While generally acceptable, remember that it can be too informal for some academic or professional settings, where more precise language may be preferred. Consider using related phrases like "as smooth as silk" or "as polished as glass" for nuanced meanings. Remember to choose a comparison that enhances the imagery and effectively communicates the intended level of smoothness or cleverness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as smooth as silk

Focuses on the smoothness and effortless quality.

as polished as glass

Highlights the refined and flawless nature.

as seamless as possible

Emphasizes the lack of disruptions or flaws.

as sharp as a tack

Indicates intelligence and quickness.

as deft as a surgeon

Implies skill and precision in execution.

as elegant as a swan

Conveys grace and sophistication.

as refined as wine

Suggests maturity and high quality.

as artful as a con

Implies skillful manipulation, often negatively.

as canny as a fox

Highlights shrewdness and cunning.

as sophisticated as technology

Draws parallel with modernity, advancement and smartness.

FAQs

How can I use "as slick as" in a sentence?

You can use "as slick as" to describe something that is smooth, polished, or cleverly executed. For example, "The new software interface is "as slick as possible"" or "His sales pitch was "as slick as an eel"".

What are some alternatives to "as slick as"?

Alternatives include "as smooth as silk", "as polished as glass", or "as seamless as possible" depending on the specific meaning you want to convey.

Is "as slick as" appropriate for formal writing?

While generally acceptable, "as slick as" can sometimes be too informal for academic or highly professional writing. Consider using more precise alternatives like "highly efficient" or "expertly executed" in such contexts.

What does "as slick as" typically describe?

"As slick as" typically describes something that is impressively smooth, efficient, or cleverly executed. It can be used for physical textures, processes, or even deceptive strategies.