coming on gently

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "coming on gently" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a gradual or soft approach to a situation, feeling, or action. Example: "The music was coming on gently, creating a soothing atmosphere in the room."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

When you feel a headache coming on, gently massaging your head, jaw, and facial muscles with your finger tips to relax the muscles and reduce the pain.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Its front page comes on gently with a little box marked "About You".

The New York Times

These come on gently and are easily modulated even when you need to slow suddenly (like when the radar detector announces a state trooper at high noon and you're just cresting the "instant jail time" section of the speedometer).

Forbes

So they would come on gently, playing dumb.

Los Angeles Times

The power, in all three modes, comes on gently but firmly.

Los Angeles Times

I sodomised her gently before coming on her tits.

The Guardian - Books

Wiggle your ear lobe gently as you feel a sneeze coming on.

WikiHow

This time a lovely, friendly looking woman in an orange melon colored button down walked over to me and said something like, "Come on," as she gently put one hand on my back and held my other hand in hers, "I'll walk with you the rest of the way".

Huffington Post

He went round the room, very gently, "Come on, be serious," and made everyone stop and think.

The Guardian

Come on... .. probed Piers, gently, while Katie hyperventilated a bit, gazed up at the Gods, or at least a lighting rig, and wiped her eyes.

The Guardian

"Come on, we're late for school," I gently remind her.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing an action, consider if the gentleness is a key aspect. If the impact is more important than the method, a stronger verb might be more appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "coming on gently" when the situation requires a more assertive or direct approach. Overusing it can make your writing seem passive or lacking in strength.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "coming on gently" functions as a verb phrase, specifically a phrasal verb ("coming on") modified by an adverb ("gently"). It describes the manner in which an action or process unfolds. According to Ludwig, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

40%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "coming on gently" is a versatile expression used to describe gradual and non-forceful approaches or developments. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in diverse contexts. While suitable for various registers, it's most commonly found in news, media, and general writing. Alternatives like "approaching softly" or "developing gradually" can be used to add nuance. Remember to avoid using it when a more direct or assertive approach is needed, as its strength lies in its implication of gentleness and subtlety.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

easing in gently

Replaces 'coming on' with 'easing in', keeping 'gently' for a similar soft introduction.

approaching softly

Replaces the phrasal verb with a participle and adverb, focusing on the manner of approach.

starting softly

Focuses on the initial stage being gentle, rather than the progression.

developing gradually

Shifts the focus to the process of development rather than immediate action.

introducing delicately

Highlights the careful and considerate introduction of something.

unfolding subtly

Emphasizes the understated and delicate nature of the unfolding.

applying lightly

Suggests a gentle touch or application of something.

progressing smoothly

Highlights the ease and lack of disruption in the progression.

emerging gradually

Focuses on the slow and gentle appearance or rise of something.

advancing steadily

Implies a consistent and unwavering forward movement at a moderate pace.

FAQs

What does "coming on gently" mean?

The phrase "coming on gently" means approaching or developing in a gradual, subtle, or non-forceful manner. It suggests a gentle introduction or progression.

How can I use "coming on gently" in a sentence?

You can use "coming on gently" to describe various situations, such as: "The music was "coming on gently", creating a relaxing atmosphere" or "The new policies are "coming on gently" to avoid disruption".

What are some alternatives to "coming on gently"?

Alternatives include "approaching softly", "developing gradually", or "unfolding subtly", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is "coming on strong" the opposite of "coming on gently"?

Yes, "coming on strong" is often considered the opposite. It implies an aggressive or forceful approach, whereas ""coming on gently"" suggests a more subtle and delicate method.