least vigorous

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "least vigorous" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is the least strong, active, or forceful in comparison to others. Example: "Among the various plants in the garden, the one in the shade was the least vigorous, struggling to grow."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

In Leiopelma, at least, vigorous thrusts of the tail are used to rupture the egg membranes.

Encyclopedia Britannica

And yet, she said, "the state mounts the least vigorous response at the storm center of the homicide problem".

The New Yorker

At 85, Ivan Puhich neither knows nor cares what keeps him if not exactly young, at least vigorous.

The New York Times - Sports

The average level of physical activity was reported on a scale of 1 4 (least vigorous to most vigorous).

Diabetes Care

Physical activity per day was grouped on a scale of 1 to 4 (least vigorous to most vigorous).

Disease Markers

Each day, athletes rated their perceived exertion during running on a scale from 1 (least vigorous) to 10 (most vigorous).

Environmental Health: A Global Access Science Source

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

I have learned that at least one vigorous critique is coming.

The New York Times

In the event he was at least a vigorous presence, albeit a blunt one in a first half that quickly settled into a suffocating press of well-stocked midfields.

The Guardian - Sport

Exhaustive television coverage attracts mainly political wonks, but the conferences can present hazards for the party leaders, especially when powerful blocs are close to open revolt, or at least in vigorous dissent.

The New York Times

They are recruited from around the world and trained by Mircea Lucescu, a wily Romanian whose 32 years' coaching includes spells in Italy, which tell him what Italians like least: fast, vigorous, skilled young men running at them.

The New York Times - Sports

Winning promotion from the Championship will not be an easy task but with a whole new squad already signed for the 2015 season, local talent eager to impress and the club willing to use the full salary cap, they at least look vigorous and focused.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a series of items or actions, use "least vigorous" to clearly indicate the one with the lowest intensity or force. This is especially useful in comparative analyses, such as evaluating plant growth or physical activity levels.

Common error

Avoid using "least vigorous" when describing something that requires a higher degree of intensity or force. Ensure the context aligns with indicating minimal activity or strength. For example, it would be inappropriate to describe a winning sports team as the "least vigorous."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "least vigorous" functions as a superlative adjective phrase. It modifies a noun to indicate that it possesses the lowest degree of vigor compared to other items within a group. As noted by Ludwig AI, the phrase is considered correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

42%

News & Media

33%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

8%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "least vigorous" is a grammatically sound and usable expression that functions as a superlative adjective phrase. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is correct and suitable for describing something exhibiting the lowest level of energy, strength, or intensity. While not a highly common phrase, appearing "uncommon" in frequency, it is utilized across diverse contexts, including science, news media, and general reference. When using "least vigorous", ensure the context accurately reflects minimal activity or strength, and that you consider alternatives like "weakest" or "least active" for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

least energetic

Directly addresses the lack of energy or enthusiasm compared to "least vigorous".

least active

Highlights a reduced level of physical or functional activity compared to "least vigorous".

weakest

Focuses on the lack of strength or power compared to "least vigorous".

least robust

Highlights a lack of health and strength compared to "least vigorous".

least forceful

Emphasizes a lack of impact or power compared to "least vigorous".

feeblest

Emphasizes a greater degree of weakness and frailty than "least vigorous".

most lethargic

Emphasizes inactivity and sluggishness, suggesting a lack of vitality compared to "least vigorous".

mildest

Implies a lower intensity or force, often used in the context of activity or impact when compared to "least vigorous".

most subdued

Implies a lack of excitement or animation compared to "least vigorous".

slowest

Focuses on the lack of speed or pace, applicable when vigor relates to movement when compared to "least vigorous".

FAQs

How can I use "least vigorous" in a sentence?

You can use "least vigorous" to describe something that exhibits the lowest level of energy, strength, or intensity compared to others. For example, "Among the seedlings, the one in the shadiest spot was the "least vigorous"."

What are some alternatives to using "least vigorous"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "weakest", "least active", or "mildest" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it grammatically correct to say "least vigorous"?

Yes, "least vigorous" is grammatically correct. It follows the standard English structure of using "least" as a superlative adjective to modify "vigorous."

What's the difference between "least vigorous" and "most feeble"?

"Least vigorous" implies a lower level of energy or activity compared to others, while "most feeble" suggests a significant degree of weakness or frailty. The latter indicates a more pronounced lack of strength.