poorly speaking

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "poorly speaking" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that what follows may not be the most accurate or precise way of expressing an idea. Example: "Poorly speaking, one might say that the project was a failure, but there were many valuable lessons learned."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Anthony shot often, and poorly —.375 for the series.

The New York Times - Sports

They shot poorly (.377) all night, including several air balls.

The New York Times - Sports

Francisco Liriano, the 2006 sensation who had ligament transplant surgery, pitched poorly (5-12, 5.71 earned run average) and is now in the bullpen.

The New York Times - Sports

Rodriguez shot poorly (2 for 8), but he had six assists in 25 minutes 34 seconds.

The New York Times - Sports

Many are poor and poorly educated 82% have no more than a high-school diploma.

The Economist

James had 30 points and 13 rebounds, but he shot poorly (11 for 25) and had only two assists.

The New York Times - Sports

"It's striking how poorly G8 countries score on core recommendations, which have to do with due diligence and beneficial ownership.

The Guardian

On NBC -- third place in households and in the 18-to-49 18-to-49 18-to-49e season premiere of "Average Joe" faredemographic.62 million).

The New York Times

The CLS method performed poorly (RPET=38%).

Analytica Chimica Acta

<8 (better) >8 (poorly) 10.7 ± 5 16 better, 16 poorly, 19 control 51 1 100 Poor glycemic control negatively modulated the bone factors during healing, although diabetes (regardless of glycemic control) had no effect on implant stabilization.

International Journal of Implant Dentistry

In relation to other more complicated transformations, this relatively simple one is described rather poorly [76],[76]]-[76]].

Chemistry Central Journal

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "poorly speaking" to introduce a simplification or approximation of a complex idea, signaling to your audience that the following explanation might lack nuance but serves a practical purpose.

Common error

Avoid using "poorly speaking" excessively, as it can undermine the credibility of your statements. Instead, aim for clarity and precision whenever possible. If you must use it, ensure it's genuinely necessary to simplify a complex concept, not to excuse a lack of understanding.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "poorly speaking" functions as an introductory adverbial phrase. It modifies the verb in the main clause, indicating the manner in which something is expressed is less than ideal. The expression acts as a disclaimer, preparing the listener or reader for an imprecise or simplified statement. Ludwig confirms its usability.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "poorly speaking" is a grammatically correct phrase used to preface an imprecise or simplified statement. According to Ludwig, the phrase is usable, though examples are rare. Alternatives like "inaccurately speaking" or "to put it badly" can be used depending on the context. When using this phrase, aim for clarity while acknowledging potential oversimplifications, and avoid overuse to maintain credibility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

To phrase it poorly

Highlights the inadequate phrasing of a statement.

Inaccurately speaking

Replaces "poorly" with "inaccurately", emphasizing the lack of correctness in the expression.

Badly expressed

Emphasizes the inadequate or unskilled articulation of an idea.

Imprecisely stated

Highlights the lack of precision or accuracy in the statement.

To put it badly

Focuses on the quality of the expression being unfavorable.

Clumsily worded

Points out the awkward or ungraceful construction of the expression.

Awkwardly phrased

Similar to "clumsily worded", but focuses on the awkwardness of the phrasing.

Inelegantly put

Focuses on the lack of elegance or grace in the way something is expressed.

Inarticulately expressed

Stresses the inability to express something clearly and effectively.

To say it unskillfully

Emphasizes the lack of skill in the expression.

FAQs

How can I use "poorly speaking" in a sentence?

You can use "poorly speaking" to preface a statement that might not be entirely accurate or precise, but serves to convey a general idea. For example, "Poorly speaking, one could say the project failed due to lack of funding."

What are some alternatives to "poorly speaking"?

Alternatives include "inaccurately speaking", "to put it badly", or "to phrase it poorly". These phrases can be used to indicate that a statement is not perfectly accurate.

When is it appropriate to use "poorly speaking"?

It is appropriate to use "poorly speaking" when you are trying to simplify a complex idea and acknowledge that your explanation might not be entirely accurate or nuanced. This is useful when communicating with someone who may not have expertise in the subject.

Is "poorly speaking" grammatically correct?

Yes, "poorly speaking" is grammatically correct. It functions as an adverbial phrase modifying the act of speaking, indicating the manner in which something is being expressed is not ideal. According to Ludwig, it is a usable phrase.