relax slightly

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "relax slightly" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing a minor reduction in tension or stress, often in a physical or emotional context. Example: "After a long day at work, I like to sit in my favorite chair and relax slightly while listening to music."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

"All right, as long as you're here... " Mr. Madoff says, as he seems to relax slightly.

The New York Times

Only when we reached the Panjshir, the Tajik anti-Taliban heartland, did things relax slightly.

The Guardian - Books

Last month America's House of Representatives passed a bill to relax slightly the strict sanctions against Cuba.

The Economist

By midafternoon, as the winds began to fade and the rains to lessen, the hospital's chief, Cindy Bradley, was able to relax slightly.

The New York Times

if Juan Carlos, whose morale-boosting visit to troops in the desert raised his own status in the eyes of the military, is able to consolidate his position by ensuring that the Spanish do not lose face, both the Prince and the Western nations will be able to relax slightly.

The Guardian

A person's windpipe seems to relax slightly after they lose consciousness, giving the obstruction one more chance to pop out.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

Sasha relaxed slightly.

The New Yorker

It ha a relaxed, slightly dilapidated look.

The New Yorker

He's chatty, relaxed, slightly nerdy, very friendly.

The Guardian - Music

As we wander to a back room for a more personal chat he relaxes slightly.

Independent

Burton relaxed slightly and walked out the night with the bobby, making the rounds of Waterloo.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a gradual change in someone's demeanor or a situation's intensity, use "relax slightly" to convey a subtle easing of tension. For example, "After hearing the good news, she seemed to relax slightly."

Common error

Avoid using "relax slightly" excessively in formal or professional writing. While grammatically correct, it can sound informal. Opt for more precise alternatives like "ease restrictions" or "reduce pressure" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "relax slightly" functions as a verb phrase, where "relax" is the main verb indicating a state of becoming less tense or stressed, and "slightly" is an adverb modifying the verb, indicating the degree to which the relaxing occurs. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

25%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "relax slightly" is a grammatically sound and usable expression that describes a subtle reduction in tension, stress, or strictness. As Ludwig AI states, it is correct and usable in written English. It is most commonly found in News & Media and Science contexts, with a neutral register suitable for general writing. While generally acceptable, formal contexts may benefit from more precise alternatives such as "ease restrictions" or "reduce pressure". When using "relax slightly", ensure it accurately conveys the intended degree of easing or adjustment, and avoid overuse in highly formal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ease up a bit

This alternative suggests a more informal lessening of effort or tension.

loosen up a little

Similar to 'ease up', this phrase emphasizes a reduction in rigidity or strictness.

calm down somewhat

Focuses on reducing anxiety or agitation to a degree.

become less tense

Directly addresses the reduction of tension, whether physical or emotional.

soften a little

Suggests a decrease in harshness or severity.

let up a bit

Indicates a lessening of pressure or intensity.

subside somewhat

Implies a gradual decrease in intensity or force.

abate slightly

Formally suggests a lessening in degree or intensity of something.

recede a little

Implies a gradual movement away from a high point or level of intensity.

diminish slightly

Focuses on the reduction in size, extent, or importance.

FAQs

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

You can use "relax slightly" to describe a subtle reduction in tension, stress, or strictness. For example, "The rules were "eased slightly" after the initial trial period".

What can I say instead of "relax slightly"?

You can use alternatives like "ease up a bit", "loosen up a little", or "calm down somewhat" depending on the context.

Is "relax slightly" formal or informal?

"Relax slightly" is generally considered neutral in tone. While acceptable in most contexts, more formal situations might benefit from alternatives like "alleviate somewhat" or "moderate a little".

What does it mean to "relax slightly"?

To "relax slightly" means to reduce tension or strictness to a small degree. It implies a minor adjustment towards a more relaxed state, whether physically, emotionally, or procedurally.