gone slack

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "gone slack" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that has become loose, relaxed, or less tense, often referring to physical objects or situations. Example: "After weeks of use, the rope has gone slack and needs to be tightened again."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

Her eyes had gone slack.

The New York Times - Magazine

They flexed some emotional muscles that had gone slack, and they cheered.

The New York Times

MacArthur flung into Korea a few scratch units gone slack from easy duty in occupied Japan.

The New York Times - Books

It is an increasingly common sight for tribes across the West and Plains: Tourist spending has gone slack since the recession hit.

The New York Times

She has a vivid, passionate presence, even when her lively features have gone slack with depression and her bright blue eyes have glazed over.

The New York Times

Yet the taut lyricism of "Sexing the Cherry" and her other early novels has gone slack, and the jump-cuts don't work.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

The timing throughout goes slack.

The New York Times

Pat went slack beneath a bowed helmet, then shrugged.

The New York Times - Magazine

But within a year, the push for reform went slack.

The Economist

The man's face goes slack with disbelief.

The New Yorker

With no battle for space, New York shoppers go slack.

The New York Times - Food

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "gone slack" to describe a state of reduced tension, effort, or activity, whether physical (like a rope) or abstract (like market demand).

Common error

Avoid using "gone slack" to describe situations where something has broken or completely ceased to function. The phrase implies a reduction, not a cessation, of function.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "gone slack" functions as a compound verb, indicating a state of having become less tense, firm, or active. Ludwig's examples illustrate its use in describing both physical and abstract conditions.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "gone slack" is a common and grammatically correct verb phrase used to describe a state of reduced tension, activity, or intensity. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is widely used in various contexts, predominantly within news and media. It's suitable for describing physical objects losing tautness, as well as abstract concepts losing momentum. When writing, remember that "gone slack" implies a reduction, not a complete cessation, of function. Consider alternatives like "become loose" or "lost tension" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

become loose

Focuses on the physical aspect of becoming less tight or firm.

become lax

Emphasizes a decline in strictness, care, or control.

lost tension

Highlights the absence of tightness or strain.

become weakened

Indicates a reduction in strength or effectiveness.

diminished in intensity

Refers to a reduction in the strength or degree of something.

become less strict

Specifically refers to a decrease in adherence to rules or standards.

lost its edge

Implies a decline in sharpness, enthusiasm, or effectiveness.

become less vigorous

Emphasizes a reduction in energy or effort.

become deflated

Suggests a loss of confidence or enthusiasm.

lost momentum

Indicates a slowdown or halt in progress or development.

FAQs

How can I use "gone slack" in a sentence?

You can use "gone slack" to describe something that has become loose, less tense, or diminished in activity. For example, "After the storm, the sails had "gone slack"" or "Since the economic downturn, tourist spending has "gone slack"".

What are some alternatives to "gone slack"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "become loose", "become lax", or "lost tension" as alternatives to "gone slack".

When is it appropriate to use "gone slack" instead of "loosened"?

"Gone slack" implies a process or state of becoming less tense or active, whereas "loosened" suggests a more direct or intentional action. For example, "The rope has "gone slack" over time," versus "I loosened the knot."

Can "gone slack" be used in both physical and abstract contexts?

Yes, "gone slack" can be used in both physical and abstract contexts. You can describe physical objects like ropes or muscles that have "gone slack", as well as abstract concepts like market demand or emotional energy that has "gone slack".