slightly chilled

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "slightly chilled" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a beverage or food item that has been cooled to a moderate temperature, often for enhanced flavor or enjoyment. Example: "I prefer my white wine slightly chilled to bring out its crispness."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

38 human-written examples

Shinn's dry 2007 merlot rosé, slightly chilled, is a fine Thanksgiving aperitif.

The New York Times

Drink with a slightly chilled gamay whatever the time of day, including breakfast.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Serve at room temperature or slightly chilled, garnished with the reserved thyme leaves.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Savor the gamay grape's vivacity at room temperature or slightly chilled.

The New York Times

Minestrone can be had with pasta or the more traditional rice, and in summer is served slightly chilled.

The New York Times - Travel

An attractive deep cherry-pink, the slightly off-dry rosé ($15) is most expressive when slightly chilled.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

22 human-written examples

For me, and I'm sure for many of you, those are slightly chilling words.

The New York Times

A cocktail a little like a walk on the moors on a misty morning; refreshing and slightly chilling.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"There are some piquant, slightly chilling moments of seeing flashes of Frank in Jack and vice versa," he says.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

At Calzada de Valdunciel, there was a slightly chilling reminder of Spain's not so distant past.

The Guardian

Kirby's blog contains the slightly chilling phrase: "The role schools play in our national and family life is far too important to be left to teachers".

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When serving beverages like wine, specify "slightly chilled" to indicate a temperature that enhances flavor without being too cold. For example, "Serve the rosé slightly chilled to bring out its fruity notes."

Common error

Avoid over-chilling items described as "slightly chilled". Excessive coldness can mask flavors and alter textures. Use a thermometer to ensure the item reaches the ideal temperature, typically between 45-55°F (7-13°C).

Linguistic Context

The phrase "slightly chilled" primarily functions as a descriptive adjective modifying a noun. It specifies the state of an item, indicating that it has been cooled to a moderate degree. Ludwig provides numerous examples of it used with foods and beverages to describe desired serving temperatures.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Wiki

25%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Reference

4%

Encyclopedias

3%

Science

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "slightly chilled" is a descriptive adjective phrase used to indicate that something has been cooled to a moderate degree. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in written English. It's commonly used in culinary contexts, particularly when describing the ideal serving temperature for beverages like rosé wine or light red wines, or for dishes like soups and desserts. The term's frequency is categorized as 'Common', with primary usage contexts including News & Media and Wiki sources. When using "slightly chilled", it's important to avoid over-chilling, as excessive coldness can mask flavors. Alternatives like "lightly cooled" or "mildly refrigerated" can be used to convey a similar meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ever-so-slightly chilled

Emphasizes the subtle degree of chilling.

lightly cooled

Focuses on the cooling process rather than the state of being chilled.

mildly refrigerated

Emphasizes the use of refrigeration to achieve the desired temperature.

somewhat cold

A more general term, indicating a degree of coldness without specifying chilling.

cool to the touch

Describes the sensation of coolness when touched.

tempered

Highlights that the coldness is balanced and pleasant, avoiding extreme cold.

partially frozen

Indicates a state where the item is nearing freezing, implying a stronger level of cooling.

just below room temperature

Specifies the temperature relative to the surrounding environment.

brought down in temperature a bit

More descriptive, focusing on the action of reducing temperature.

left to stand for a little in the fridge

Describes how to achieve the coolness, rather than the result itself.

FAQs

How do you use "slightly chilled" in a sentence?

You can use "slightly chilled" to describe food or drinks that are not very cold. For example, "The soup is best served "just slightly chilled" to enhance its flavor."

What is the difference between "slightly chilled" and "ice cold"?

"Slightly chilled" means the item is cooled but not very cold, while "ice cold" means it is extremely cold, close to freezing. If you want a cooler drink, try it "slightly chilled".

What are some foods or drinks that are often served "slightly chilled"?

Some foods and drinks often served "slightly chilled" include rosé wine, light red wines like Beaujolais, certain soups, and some desserts. White dessert wines should be served "chilled".

Can I use "lightly cooled" instead of "slightly chilled"?

Yes, "lightly cooled" is a suitable alternative to "slightly chilled". Both phrases indicate a mild reduction in temperature, but "slightly chilled" may be more common in culinary contexts.