at a normal pace

USAGE SUMMARY

"at a normal pace" is correct, and it can be used in written English.
Example: She walked at a normal pace, taking her time to enjoy the view.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Sit down again at a normal pace.

Harvard University

Thereafter, the game was played at a normal pace.

The New York Times

I left at a normal pace and never noticed the security guard.

The Guardian - Business

Not clear if the alfalfa is going to bolt once temperatures rise or just start growing at a normal pace.

Cornell University

Through this, it became clear that studying at a "normal" pace wasn't an option for my body.

The Guardian

"But if a person is exposed to an E.A.S., as long as they move through at a normal pace, the likelihood of a negative outcome is very limited".

The New York Times - Health

The stranger sneaks in an order of jumbo shrimp, and the portion limps back at a normal pace and without any fanfare.

The New York Times - Magazine

The deformed bone caused his speech to slur subtly when he spoke at a normal pace and volume (rare), and severely when he was angry or excited (often).

The New Yorker

To proceed at a normal pace: Judicial review of President Obama's health-care law; the Supreme Court rejected a request to fast-track the appeal.

The New Yorker

Mr. Rodriguez, he said, met him at the front door and led him up to his second-floor apartment — walking at a normal pace, not running.

The New York Times

When the quarries were running at a normal pace, half of the brownstone was thrown away, used for railway embankments or crushed for gravel.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing movement or processes, use "at a normal pace" to convey a sense of steadiness and predictability. This helps readers understand that the action is happening as expected, without unusual acceleration or deceleration.

Common error

Avoid constructions where the actor is obscured when using "at a normal pace". Instead of saying 'The process was completed at a normal pace', specify who or what completed the process: 'The team completed the process at a normal pace'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at a normal pace" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying verbs to describe the manner in which an action is performed. Ludwig's examples show it specifying the speed or rhythm of activities like walking, speaking, or processes.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

51%

Science

31%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the adverbial phrase "at a normal pace" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to describe actions occurring with expected speed and rhythm. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and common usage, highlighting its presence in diverse contexts like news, science, and general discourse. When writing, use "at a normal pace" to provide clarity and emphasize the typical nature of an activity. Be mindful of overusing passive voice and consider alternatives like ""at a regular speed"" or ""at an average rate"" for nuanced expression. While versatile, its primary function remains rooted in conveying a sense of predictability and steadiness in various processes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at a regular speed

Focuses on the speed being consistent and not deviating from the norm.

at an average rate

Emphasizes that the rate is typical and not exceptionally fast or slow.

at a standard tempo

Highlights the steadiness and conventional timing of the action.

at a typical speed

Stresses that the speed is ordinary and conforms to expectations.

at a natural rhythm

Suggests the pace is unforced and aligns with a normal, inherent flow.

at a steady clip

Implies a consistent and unhurried pace.

at an even keel

Indicates a stable and consistent pace without fluctuations.

at a moderate speed

Emphasizes that the pace is neither fast nor slow but somewhere in the middle.

without rushing

Focuses on the absence of haste, suggesting a deliberate and unhurried pace.

at a leisurely pace

Highlights that the pace is relaxed and unhurried, often for enjoyment.

FAQs

How can I use "at a normal pace" in a sentence?

You can use "at a normal pace" to describe any activity that proceeds with expected speed or rhythm. For example, "She walked "at a normal pace" through the park, enjoying the scenery."

What are some alternatives to saying "at a normal pace"?

Alternatives include "at a regular speed", "at an average rate", or "at a steady clip", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always necessary to specify "at a normal pace"?

No, specifying "at a normal pace" is only necessary when you want to emphasize that the action is proceeding as expected, without unusual acceleration or deceleration. If the pace is already implied, it may be redundant.

What's the difference between "at a normal pace" and "at a leisurely pace"?

"At a normal pace" suggests a standard, expected speed, while "at a leisurely pace" implies a relaxed, unhurried speed, often for enjoyment. The former is neutral, the latter is intentionally slow.