receded slightly

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "receded slightly" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a small or gradual movement away from a particular position or point, often in a physical or metaphorical context. Example: "As the tide receded slightly, more of the beach was exposed, revealing shells and seaweed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

Several measures of risk aversion receded slightly.

The New York Times

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

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

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

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

By the close, the skittishness of investors over the health of the economy, the source of much anxiety on Friday, appeared to have receded slightly.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 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

When questioned at which times during the course of the day (lunchtime to late evening) such behaviours occurred in children with ADHD, a consistent pattern emerged, with parents reporting that such behaviours peaked during the late afternoon/early evening period, receding slightly during the late evening and at bedtime.

Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Mental Health

Instead, they receded somewhat.

The New Yorker

There's something machine-like about her intensity, which is modified only by a puckered mouth, a lower lip that recedes slightly when she's momentarily baffled by something at the computer.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "receded slightly", ensure the context clearly establishes what is diminishing. For example, specify whether it's a feeling, a physical measurement, or an abstract concept.

Common error

Avoid using "receded slightly" when the decrease is substantial. This phrase is best suited for minor reductions; otherwise, opt for stronger terms like "decreased significantly" or "drastically reduced".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "receded slightly" functions as an adverbial modifier, indicating the extent to which something has moved back or diminished. As Ludwig AI confirms, the expression is both correct and common in English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Social Media

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "receded slightly" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression for indicating a small or gradual decrease. As Ludwig AI validates, it's appropriate in various contexts, especially in news reporting and analytical writing, as seen in sources like The New York Times and The Economist. While alternatives like "diminished a little" or "lessened slightly" exist, it’s important to choose the phrasing that best reflects the intended degree of change. Be mindful not to use "receded slightly" for substantial reductions, where stronger terms would be more appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

lessened slightly

Focuses on the easing or reduction of something, indicating a mild reduction.

decreased marginally

Highlights a minimal decrease, emphasizing the small degree of change.

reduced marginally

Similar to 'decreased marginally', highlighting a small degree of reduction.

diminished a little

Indicates a slight decrease or reduction, focusing on the act of becoming smaller or less.

eased a bit

Suggests a slight relaxation or reduction in intensity or pressure.

subsided a tad

Indicates a slight calming down or settling, often used for emotions or disturbances.

tapered off gently

Implies a gradual and smooth decrease, suitable for describing trends or quantities.

abated somewhat

Suggests a reduction in intensity or strength, indicating a partial decrease.

waned a little

Emphasizes a decline in power, influence, or extent, indicating a slight decrease.

shrunk imperceptibly

Highlights the almost undetectable nature of the decrease, emphasizing its minimal scale.

FAQs

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

You can use "receded slightly" to indicate a minor reduction or decrease. For example, "The floodwaters "receded slightly" overnight" or "Her anxiety "receded slightly" after the good news".

What's the difference between "receded slightly" and "decreased significantly"?

"Receded slightly" implies a small reduction, whereas "decreased significantly" suggests a substantial decrease. Choose the phrase that accurately reflects the magnitude of the change.

What are some alternatives to "receded slightly"?

Alternatives include phrases like "diminished a little", "lessened slightly", or "eased a bit", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is "receded slightly" formal or informal?

"Receded slightly" is suitable for neutral to formal contexts. It's appropriate for news reports, academic papers, and professional communications. Informal alternatives might include "backed off a bit" or "eased up a little".