lower the speed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "lower the speed" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where you want to instruct someone to reduce the speed of a vehicle, machine, or process. Example: "Please lower the speed as we approach the construction zone to ensure everyone's safety."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

They don't think to lower the speed limit or have more cycle lanes.

The Guardian

Mr. McCaffrey said he had also asked the department to lower the speed limit on the boulevard where it passed through Woodside from 35 m.p.h. to 30 m.p.h.

The New York Times

From the Fourth of July through Labor Day, which happens to be the busiest travel time, why not lower the speed limit back to 55?

The New York Times

Mix the two sugars together, then lower the speed slightly and add tablespoons full of sugar every few seconds until it is all incorporated.

The Guardian - Books

The Transportation Department has also begun slow-zone programs in various residential areas, which lower the speed limit to 20 miles per hour, in addition to installing signs, markings and speed bumps to calm traffic.

The New York Times

My neighbors and I are petitioning the town to, among other things, lower the speed limit on Bedford Road, install flashing red lights at some crosswalks, repaint the crosswalks and post the financial penalties for violating the state law regarding crosswalks and speeding.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

The effect of increasing the relaxation time is to lower the speeds of the thermal modes.

International Journal of Mechanical and Materials Engineering

In generalized theory of thermoelasticity, effect of increasing the relaxation time is to lower the speeds of the thermal modes.

International Journal of Mechanical and Materials Engineering

ISDN runs on ordinary copper wire, which lowers the cost but also lowers the speed.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Combine the flour and baking powder and, lowering the speed of the mixer, fold into the batter.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Summer traffic through the Hamptons is already at a crawl on most weekends, but that isn't stopping the Village of East Hampton from lowering the speed limit.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When instructing someone to "lower the speed" of a machine, be specific about the desired outcome or the reason for the reduction. For example: "Lower the speed to prevent overheating".

Common error

Avoid using "lower the speed" in contexts where a more precise term is needed. Instead of saying "Lower the speed of data transfer", specify "Reduce the data transfer rate".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lower the speed" functions primarily as an imperative, often used to give a direct instruction or command. Ludwig examples confirm its use in contexts ranging from driving instructions to operating machinery.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "lower the speed" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase for instructing a reduction in velocity or rate. As verified by Ludwig, it is suitable for various contexts, from driving instructions to scientific procedures. While it maintains a neutral register, more formal alternatives such as "reduce the velocity" exist. When using the phrase, ensure clarity in your instructions by specifying the reason for the speed reduction or the desired outcome. Be mindful of the context to prevent ambiguity and consider alternatives if greater precision is needed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

reduce the velocity

Uses a more formal synonym for speed; slightly changes the tone.

slow down

A more casual and commonly used phrasal verb to mean reduce speed.

decrease the pace

Focuses on the rate of movement or activity rather than literal speed.

decelerate

A single-word verb that means to reduce speed, more technical.

cut back on speed

A more informal expression indicating a reduction in speed.

diminish the velocity

Uses a slightly more formal and emphatic verb.

ease off the speed

Implies a gradual reduction in speed, more relaxed.

retard the rate

Emphasizes delaying or impeding the rate, often in a scientific context.

moderate the speed

Suggests bringing the speed to a reasonable or average level.

curtail the speed

Suggests limiting or restricting speed.

FAQs

What does "lower the speed" mean?

The phrase "lower the speed" means to reduce the rate at which something is moving or operating. This can apply to vehicles, machines, processes, or any activity involving velocity or pace.

What can I say instead of "lower the speed"?

You can use alternatives like "reduce the velocity", "decelerate", or "slow down" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "lower the speed"?

It's appropriate to use "lower the speed" when you want to instruct someone or something to decrease the rate of movement or operation. This can be in driving, cooking, or operating machinery.

Is "lower the speed" formal or informal?

The phrase "lower the speed" is generally considered neutral in register. While not highly formal, it is appropriate for a wide range of situations. More formal alternatives include "reduce the velocity".