rather calm

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "rather calm" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a state of being calm to a moderate degree, often in contrast to being very calm or agitated. Example: "Despite the chaos around her, she remained rather calm during the entire situation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

Despite their success, the three were rather calm.

The New York Times - Sports

Luckily, I was rather calm, and I leaned back just in time to avoid that hit.

The New Yorker

"We weren't sharp tonight," a rather calm Robbie Ftorek, the coach of the Devils, said.

The New York Times - Sports

10.26pm: As befits a rather calm night, the band receive a polite standing ovation.

The Guardian - Music

"From the state point of view, simply the political point of view, I'm rather calm," he said.

The New York Times

Ed Miliband's rather calm approach - more Evan Davis than John Humphrys - since the New Year has not gone down well with the commentators.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

It's beautiful and rather calming.

The Guardian

As with lemon juice, the more sorrel you use, the more it has to be balanced with something sweet, starchy or creamy – it's a yin-yang approach to cooking that I find rather calming.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

However, the language from the government is rather calmer.

BBC

Lighten up Go easy on strong, warm colours: they stimulate rather than calm.

Independent

Because of this, Berdych's net game looks rushed and anxious rather than calm and assured.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "rather calm" to describe a state of moderate composure, especially when contrasting it with potential agitation or excitement. For example, "Despite the alarming news, she remained rather calm".

Common error

While "rather calm" is acceptable, overuse of "rather" can sound overly formal or stilted in casual conversation. Consider alternatives like "fairly calm" or "somewhat calm" for a more natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "rather calm" functions as an adverb-adjective combination, where "rather" modifies the adjective "calm", indicating a degree or extent of calmness. According to Ludwig AI, this is a correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

15%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "rather calm" is a grammatically sound and common phrase used to describe a moderate state of calmness or composure. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is correct and usable in written English. It finds frequent use in News & Media, Wiki and Science contexts. While generally neutral in tone, its formality can be adjusted by choosing alternative phrases like "pretty calm" for more informal settings. When writing, be mindful of the subtle difference in intensity compared to phrases like "very calm", and avoid overusing "rather" in casual conversation. Based on the analysis of multiple examples, "rather calm" is a versatile phrase for expressing a tempered sense of tranquility or control.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

reasonably collected

Suggests a sensible and rational state of mind, with emotions under control and thoughts well-organized.

relatively composed

Focuses on the maintenance of self-control and a steady demeanor, especially in challenging situations.

quite unruffled

Emphasizes the lack of visible agitation or disturbance, suggesting a smooth and undisturbed surface or demeanor.

somewhat serene

Implies a degree of peacefulness and tranquility that is less intense than complete serenity.

mildly cool-headed

Implies a capacity for rational thought and action, particularly in stressful situations, with a moderate degree of detachment.

moderately tranquil

Highlights a moderate level of peace and quietude, suggesting a gentle absence of disturbance.

fairly placid

Describes a gentle and undisturbed state, often referring to a temperament or environment that is not easily ruffled.

passably sedate

Indicates a restrained and deliberate manner, suggesting a subdued and unhurried pace or demeanor.

slightly stoic

Refers to endurance of hardship without the display of feelings, and without complaint.

kind of easygoing

Highlights a relaxed and tolerant approach to life, with a tendency to avoid conflict and maintain a positive outlook.

FAQs

How can I use "rather calm" in a sentence?

You can use "rather calm" to describe someone or something that is moderately peaceful or composed, such as, "The atmosphere in the library was "rather calm", which made it perfect for studying".

What's a more informal way to say "rather calm"?

For a less formal tone, consider using phrases like "pretty calm", "fairly calm", or "somewhat calm" instead of ""rather calm"".

Is it grammatically correct to say "rather calm"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. The word "rather" functions as an adverb modifying the adjective "calm", indicating a moderate degree of calmness.

How does "rather calm" differ from "very calm"?

"Rather calm" indicates a moderate level of calmness, while "very calm" suggests a higher degree of tranquility and composure. The level of intensity is different.