recede slightly

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "recede slightly" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a gradual movement back or a decrease in intensity or prominence. Example: "As the tide began to recede slightly, the beach was revealed, showcasing the shells and rocks hidden beneath the water."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

And while water levels have started to recede slightly in some places, officials warned on Saturday that the river would remain above flood stage for several weeks.

The New York Times

As banks recede slightly from the landscape, there are a growing number of questions about why we even need banks: Interest rates are so low that keeping cash in a savings account is a money-losing venture when compared to inflation.

Huffington Post

PRICES RECEDE SLIGHTLY Second Quarter Consumption Is Expected to Exceed First, Due to Increase In Outdoor Work.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Several measures of risk aversion receded slightly.

The New York Times

The scholarly and the erudite receded slightly in the three "negritos" that followed.

The New York Times - Arts

Over the weekend, the likelihood of a war between India and Pakistan receded slightly.

The New York Times

In prose Morgan's emphasis on the sounds of language recedes slightly, to give full weight to the events.

Cornell University

The problem, invariably, is that once you bring on soloists, the orchestra recedes slightly into the background.

The Washington Post

It has since receded slightly to 30.6 percent, however, as Mr. Obama held leads in a number of swing state polls late last week.

The New York Times

Then the giant red word "Children" receded slightly to the point where the full phrase came clear: "16 Children".

The New York Times - Magazine

Friday's five-day gain lifted the markets out of a streak of weekly losses, and the volatility receded slightly on Friday.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "recede slightly", ensure the context clearly establishes what is receding. For instance, "The floodwaters receded slightly, revealing more of the road."

Common error

Avoid using "recede slightly" when a more significant decrease is intended. Opt for phrases like "recede significantly" or "decrease substantially" if the change is considerable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "recede slightly" functions as a verb phrase, modifying a noun to indicate a minor reduction or withdrawal. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase follows standard grammar rules. It describes a gradual movement back or a decrease in intensity.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "recede slightly" is a grammatically correct and usable expression in English, as affirmed by Ludwig AI. It functions as a verb phrase indicating a minor reduction or withdrawal, suitable for a range of contexts including news, science, and academia. While not exceedingly common, its use is appropriate for conveying nuanced decreases, and it's important to ensure that the context clearly indicates what is receding. Consider alternatives like "diminish slightly" or "decline slightly" for semantic variety. The phrase maintains a neutral register, making it versatile for various writing styles.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fall slightly

Indicates a minor decrease, similar to "recede slightly".

diminish slightly

Suggests a small reduction in size, extent, or importance.

subside slightly

Implies a minor decrease in intensity or level.

decline slightly

Denotes a small decrease in quantity or quality.

drop slightly

Indicates a small and sudden decrease.

lessen slightly

Signifies a small reduction in degree or intensity.

retreat slightly

Implies a minor withdrawal or movement back.

fade slightly

Suggests a gradual and minor disappearance or weakening.

ebb slightly

Denotes a slight decrease in the flow or intensity.

decrease slightly

Indicates a small reduction in size, number, or degree.

FAQs

How can I use "recede slightly" in a sentence?

You can use "recede slightly" to describe a minor decrease or withdrawal, such as "After the storm, the water levels "receded slightly" near the coast."

What's a good alternative to "recede slightly"?

Alternatives include phrases like "diminish slightly", "decline slightly", or "subside slightly", depending on the specific context.

Is it more appropriate to say "recede slightly" or "recede significantly"?

The choice depends on the magnitude of the change. Use "recede slightly" for a minor decrease and "recede significantly" for a substantial one.

What is the difference between "recede slightly" and "retreat slightly"?

"Recede slightly" generally refers to a decrease in level or intensity, while "retreat slightly" suggests a physical movement backward.