in slow motion

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in slow motion" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an action that appears to happen at a slower pace than normal, often for dramatic effect. Example: "The athlete dove into the water, and the splash was captured in slow motion, highlighting the grace of the movement."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sports

Film

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Life was in slow motion".

Independent

"It was in slow motion.

The New York Times

"Vienna moves in slow motion.

The New York Times - Travel

But in slow motion.

The New York Times

It all happened in slow motion.

The New York Times

"You're living with them in slow motion".

The New York Times

He began flailing in slow motion.

The New Yorker

It seemed to happen in slow motion.

The New Yorker

I feel fluent in slow motion".

The New York Times - Books

These things do happen in slow motion.

The New Yorker

Are they filmed in slow motion?

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in slow motion" to emphasize the details and emotional impact of a specific moment, especially in narrative writing or descriptive passages. For example, describing a character's reaction "in slow motion" can heighten the tension or emotional resonance.

Common error

Avoid overusing "in slow motion", as it can lose its impact if applied too frequently. Reserve it for moments where the slowed-down effect is truly significant to the overall narrative or description.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in slow motion" functions primarily as an adverbial phrase, modifying verbs to describe how an action is performed. Ludwig confirms this usage is correct and common.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Sports

25%

Film

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Science

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in slow motion" is a common and grammatically correct adverbial phrase used to describe events unfolding at a reduced speed. As shown by Ludwig, it is particularly prevalent in news, sports, and film contexts, where it's often used to heighten drama or emphasize detail. While its usage is versatile, overuse can diminish its impact. Consider alternatives like "at a reduced speed" or "with delayed movement" to diversify your writing. By employing "in slow motion" judiciously, you can enhance the descriptive power and emotional resonance of your narratives.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at a reduced speed

Focuses on the reduction of speed, which is a component of "in slow motion".

in slow time

Highlights the temporal aspect of the action, emphasizing that it's happening at a slower rate.

at half speed

Specifies a numerical reduction in speed, indicating a pace that is exactly half of the normal rate.

at a snail's pace

Uses a metaphor to describe the slowness, implying a very gradual movement.

in drawn-out fashion

Implies that something is happening over an extended period, making it seem slow.

in protracted time

Stresses that the time frame of the action is elongated or extended.

with delayed movement

Focuses on the delayed or lagging quality of the movement.

with deliberate slowness

Highlights that the slowness is intentional or purposeful.

in a sluggish manner

Indicates a lack of energy or vitality in the movement, contributing to its slowness.

at a leisurely pace

Suggests a relaxed and unhurried movement, which appears slow.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "in slow motion" in a sentence?

Use "in slow motion" to describe actions or events that seem to unfold at a reduced speed, emphasizing details or emotional impact. For example, "The crash occurred "in slow motion", each piece of debris suspended in the air."

What are some alternatives to using "in slow motion"?

You can use alternatives like "at a reduced speed", "at a snail's pace", or "with delayed movement" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "in slow motion"?

Yes, "in slow motion" is a grammatically correct and widely accepted phrase in English. It is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts.

When is it appropriate to use "in slow motion" in writing?

It's best to use "in slow motion" when you want to highlight the drawn-out or prolonged aspect of an action or event, often to create a dramatic or heightened effect. Be mindful not to overuse it, as its impact can diminish with repetition. Save it for situations that genuinely benefit from the sense of slowed time.