beginning to relax

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "beginning to relax" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a gradual process of becoming more at ease or less tense. Example: "After a long day at work, I found myself beginning to relax as I settled into my favorite chair with a book."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

Israelis were just beginning to relax.

The New York Times

Only now is he beginning to relax.

The New York Times

I think she's beginning to relax in spite of the uncomfortable surroundings, this unnatural exchange.

The New Yorker

I was beginning to relax when Mr. Almestica ordered me to start paddling back to the dock — Mr. Corridori had apparently capsized.

The New York Times

Keisler was already beginning to relax, his natural confidence counterattacking his anxiety, before the Yankees took the lead in the top of the second.

The New York Times - Sports

The Word is God According to Reay Tannahill's book Sex in History the years between 400AD and 1000AD saw Christian morality gain a grip on Western thought "so paralyzing that it is only now beginning to relax".

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

My stomach began to relax.

The New York Times - Magazine

Kiril began to relax.

The New Yorker

Shyly, we began to relax.

The Guardian

But he can begin to relax.

The Guardian

Within minutes, she began to relax.

The New York Times - Health

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing fiction, use "beginning to relax" to show a character's inner state gradually changing due to external events or internal reflection.

Common error

Avoid using "beginning to relax" to describe an immediate shift in state. This phrase is best suited for depicting a process, not an instantaneous change. For immediate relaxation, consider "relaxed" or "became relaxed".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "beginning to relax" functions as a verbal phrase within a sentence, typically part of a verb phrase, describing an action or process. As Ludwig AI indicates, this phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Formal & Business

16%

Science

16%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "beginning to relax" is a grammatically sound and commonly used phrase that describes a gradual process of easing tension or stress. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for various writing contexts, particularly in News & Media. When using this phrase, remember to emphasize the gradual nature of the relaxation process and consider alternatives like "starting to unwind" or "becoming more at ease" for nuanced expression. Avoid using this phrase to describe immediate changes in state. This phrase is used correctly in numerous reputable sources such as The New York Times and The Guardian.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

starting to unwind

Focuses on the process of releasing tension and stress after a period of activity or pressure.

becoming more at ease

Emphasizes a gradual shift toward comfort and relaxation in a particular situation.

letting go of tension

Highlights the act of consciously releasing built-up stress and physical tightness.

easing into relaxation

Implies a gentle and gradual transition into a state of calmness and tranquility.

finding a sense of calm

Suggests a discovery of inner peace and composure amidst potential stressors.

growing more comfortable

Focuses on the increasing sense of ease and security in one's surroundings or situation.

settling into tranquility

Conveys a deep immersion into a state of peacefulness and serenity.

drifting toward serenity

Suggests a passive movement toward a state of calm and undisturbed peace.

gravitating to stillness

Implies an inherent pull or attraction toward a state of quietude and inactivity.

softening into peace

Emphasizes a gentle yielding to a state of inner harmony and freedom from conflict.

FAQs

How can I use "beginning to relax" in a sentence?

"Beginning to relax" describes a gradual process of becoming less tense. For example, "After the meeting, she was "beginning to relax" as she walked home".

What are some alternatives to "beginning to relax"?

Alternatives include "starting to unwind", "becoming more at ease", or "letting go of tension", each emphasizing a slightly different aspect of easing stress.

Is it correct to say "start to relax" instead of "beginning to relax"?

Yes, "start to relax" is grammatically correct and conveys a similar meaning to "beginning to relax". The nuance lies in whether you want to emphasize the initial phase of relaxation (beginning) or simply the start of the process (start).

What's the difference between "beginning to relax" and "finally relaxed"?

"Beginning to relax" implies an ongoing process, while "finally relaxed" suggests the completion of that process. The former indicates a transition, whereas the latter denotes a state of being.