slightly chilly

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "slightly chilly" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a mild level of coldness, often in reference to weather or temperature. Example: "As we stepped outside, we noticed that it was slightly chilly, so we grabbed our jackets."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

34 human-written examples

Even in the slightly chilly weather, it's great to get out and run a little bit.

The New York Times

For all the emotions on display, it's a slightly chilly portrait.

The New York Times

"But don't be scared!" It's 9am and I'm huddled inside a slightly chilly Drill Hall.

The Guardian

Before starting The Way We Live Now he made the following, slightly chilly, calculation: "Carbury novel.

The Guardian - Books

But her voice doesn't sound precisely like any of these sources; it's altered by her unbiddable, slightly chilly nature.

The New Yorker

And Ms. Griffiths, as in many of her other roles, conveys fine, high-strung intelligence beneath a slightly chilly exterior.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

26 human-written examples

Think of it as a classier, if slightly chillier, rollerdisco; one that's accompanied by mulled wine instead of slush puppies.

The Guardian - Music

Nearby Julian Rocks, a tropical/temperate-mix dive site, attracts manta rays, turtles, dolphins and weird-looking wobbegong sharks - and makes an interesting (if slightly chillier) counterpoint to dives on the Great Barrier Reef further north.

BBC

Having given you the low down on microhouse, italo disco, electroclash, filter house and dub techno, this time round we're turning our attention to slightly chillier climes.

Vice

And come fall, when the weather warms and the (slightly less chilly) water beckons, we even swim.

The New York Times - Travel

The ideal place to eat it, I imagined, was a subterranean apartment in London's East End, on an overcast late-winter afternoon, when it was only slightly less chilly indoors than outside in the frozen drizzle.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using "slightly chilly" to add a touch of nuance or detail to your writing, especially when a more direct word like "cold" would be too strong. It can suggest a subtle and almost comforting coolness.

Common error

While "slightly chilly" is appropriate for many situations, avoid overusing it in formal or technical writing. In those contexts, consider more precise or objective descriptions of temperature.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "slightly chilly" functions as an adjective phrase, modifying a noun to describe a mild degree of coldness. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

94%

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "slightly chilly" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe a mild degree of coldness. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is readily usable in written English, particularly in contexts such as news reporting and general descriptions. While it is versatile, one should avoid overuse in highly formal or scientific writing, where more precise terminology might be preferred. The phrase's neutral register makes it appropriate for a wide range of situations, offering a subtle way to convey a gentle sense of coolness without implying discomfort.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a bit cold

Uses more common vocabulary to express a similar level of coldness.

somewhat cool

Replaces "chilly" with "cool", softening the intensity of the cold.

mildly cold

Emphasizes the mildness of the cold temperature.

a little cool

Uses "cool" instead of "chilly" for a slightly different nuance.

slightly cold

More direct synonym using the base adjective.

coolish

Informal, and less descriptive.

fresh

Describes the air, emphasizing invigorating quality.

brisk

Implies an invigorating coldness, often associated with wind.

nippy

Informal term indicating a sharp, light cold.

refreshingly cool

Highlights the positive aspect of a mild coldness.

FAQs

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

You can use "slightly chilly" to describe weather, environments, or even feelings. For example: "The air was "slightly chilly", so I grabbed a sweater" or "She gave me a "slightly chilly" reception".

What can I say instead of "slightly chilly"?

You can use alternatives like "a bit cold", "somewhat cool", or "mildly cold" depending on the context.

Is "slightly chilly" more formal or informal?

"Slightly chilly" is generally considered neutral in formality. It is suitable for both casual and semi-formal writing, though more precise terms might be preferred in very formal or scientific contexts.

What's the difference between "slightly chilly" and "chilly"?

"Slightly chilly" indicates a milder degree of coldness than just "chilly". "Chilly" suggests a more noticeable or uncomfortable coldness.