in slightly

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in slightly" is not correct and does not stand alone in written English.
It may be part of a larger phrase, such as "in slightly different ways," where it can be used to indicate a minor variation or degree. Example: "The results were in slightly better condition than we expected."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

(A second appraisal came in slightly higher).

The New Yorker

"We're going in slightly ahead.

The New York Times

Everyone works in slightly different ways.

MIT Technology Review

I watched him in slightly panicky wonder.

The Guardian

Leave them in slightly irritating full view.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

He resumed his original name in slightly simplified form.

Stanford University

Or say the same thing twice in slightly different ways.

The Guardian

In slightly different terms, they pulled this off.

The New Yorker

Smith & Nephew's results came in slightly ahead of analysts' expectations.

The Guardian - Business

But that's sub judice, and probably in slightly poor taste.

The Guardian

But yesterday he was in slightly more conciliatory mood.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Ensure that "in slightly" is always part of a larger, grammatically correct phrase to maintain clarity and avoid misinterpretation. For example, use "in slightly different ways" rather than just "in slightly".

Common error

Avoid using "in slightly" as a standalone phrase. It requires completion to convey a meaningful idea. Incorrect: "The adjustment was in slightly." Correct: "The adjustment was in slightly better condition."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in slightly" functions as a modifier within a larger phrase, indicating a minor degree or variation. As noted by Ludwig AI, it's not grammatically correct on its own and requires additional words to form a complete expression.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

17%

Science

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while the phrase "in slightly" appears frequently across various contexts, it's crucial to recognize that it is grammatically incorrect as a standalone phrase. As Ludwig AI points out, it always needs to be part of a larger construction to make sense. It functions as a modifier, indicating a small degree or variation, and is commonly found in news and media sources. When writing, ensure you complete the phrase with appropriate words to convey your intended meaning. Consider using alternatives like "to a small degree" or "somewhat" if a more concise expression is desired. Always aim for grammatical correctness to maintain clarity and professionalism in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to a small degree

Focuses on the degree of difference or change, rather than the context "in."

to a minor extent

Emphasizes the limited impact or scope of the difference.

somewhat

A more concise way to indicate a moderate degree.

marginally

Highlights that the difference or change is barely noticeable.

just a bit

An informal way of saying a little.

by a narrow margin

Suggests a close difference in measurement or degree.

by a whisker

An idiomatic expression denoting very little difference.

a tad

Informal term meaning a very small amount.

a little

A simple and direct way to indicate a small amount.

barely

Stresses the minimal nature of the extent or degree.

FAQs

How can I properly use "in slightly" in a sentence?

The phrase "in slightly" needs to be part of a longer, grammatically correct phrase. For example, you can say "in slightly different ways" or "in slightly better condition".

What are some alternatives to using "in slightly"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "to a small degree", "somewhat", or "marginally".

Is it grammatically correct to use "in slightly" on its own?

No, using "in slightly" as a standalone phrase is grammatically incorrect. It needs to be followed by additional words to form a complete and meaningful expression. You can complete the sentence using alternatives like different ways

What's the difference between "in slightly" and "to some extent"?

"In slightly" always needs to be part of a larger phrase, whereas "to some extent" can function as a complete adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or adjective directly.