long slow

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "long slow" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a process or action that takes a considerable amount of time and is characterized by a lack of speed. Example: "The long slow journey through the mountains tested their patience and endurance."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Take long, slow drives.

The New Yorker

Essentially it's long, slow cooking".

Independent

Long, slow bite.

The Guardian - Books

Long, slow days passed.

The New Yorker

Long, slow rounds.

The New York Times

It was a long, slow, resigned shrug.

The Guardian - Opinion

"It's a big, long, slow push".

The New York Times

A long slow hour hisses by.

The New Yorker

I took long, slow breaths.

The Guardian

It's a long slow afternoon.

The Guardian - Travel

But it's just a long, slow process.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "long slow" to effectively convey a sense of gradual progression or extended duration, particularly when describing processes or experiences that unfold over time. For example, "a long slow recovery" suggests a recovery process that takes a significant amount of time.

Common error

Avoid using "long slow" when describing actions or processes that are inherently quick or require immediate results. For example, avoid saying "a long slow response time" as it can be counterintuitive in contexts where speed is crucial.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "long slow" functions as a compound adjective, typically modifying a noun to describe something characterized by both extended duration and a lack of speed. It is correctly used as determined by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "long slow" is a grammatically sound and frequently used compound adjective that effectively communicates a sense of extended duration and lack of speed. Ludwig provides ample examples of its correct usage across various contexts, primarily in news and media. While versatile, it's essential to avoid using "long slow" in contexts where quick action is implied, as this can create a contradictory message. The phrase maintains a generally neutral register and is supported by numerous authoritative sources.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

gradual and leisurely

Highlights the unhurried and relaxed aspect of the process.

prolonged and unhurried

Emphasizes the extended duration and lack of rush.

extended and measured

Stresses the deliberate and controlled nature of the action.

lengthy and gradual

Focuses on both the considerable length and the incremental progression.

slow and steady

Conveys a sense of reliability and persistence over time.

unhurried and drawn-out

Highlights the lack of haste and the extended duration of the event.

protracted and relaxed

Indicates a long and easy-going process.

leisurely and lingering

Emphasizes the relaxed and prolonged nature of the experience.

glacial and deliberate

Implies an extremely slow and carefully considered pace.

plodding and sustained

Suggests a heavy, continuous movement forward.

FAQs

How can I use "long slow" in a sentence?

The phrase "long slow" is typically used to describe something that progresses gradually over a considerable period. For example, "The chef preferred a "slow cook" to bring out the flavors" or "The company experienced a "gradual decline" in sales."

What are some alternatives to "long slow"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "gradual and leisurely", "prolonged and unhurried", or "extended and measured". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it redundant to use "long slow" together?

While both "long" and "slow" describe duration or pace, using them together can emphasize the extended nature and lack of speed, providing a more descriptive and impactful image. The phrase is not inherently redundant, but consider whether the emphasis is necessary for your specific context.

When is it best to avoid using "long slow"?

Avoid using "long slow" when describing something that requires or implies quick action or immediate results. For example, it would be odd to describe a "response time" as "long slow", as this contradicts the need for speed.