slightly disengaged

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "slightly disengaged" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a state of being somewhat detached or not fully involved in a situation or conversation. Example: "During the meeting, I noticed that she seemed slightly disengaged, often looking at her phone instead of participating."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

Those values, Ms. Grieder says, created a populace ideal for economic growth: "pragmatic, fiscally conservative, socially moderate and slightly disengaged".

The New York Times

At first slightly disengaged as we talked, Diana became coherent and quick when she described her son and the tragic way he died, in a freak fall while in the care of a baby sitter.

The New York Times - Magazine

These include structures with TMDs opened inward with slightly disengaged NBDs [Protein Data Bank (PDB) entry 3B5X], and structures with an opened outward DBS and fully engaged, dimerized NBDs (PDB entries 3B5Z, 3B5Y, and 3B60).

Biochemistry

In the simulations presented here, the ADP-bound Sav1866 conformation was taken to be an approximation of a conformation with fully engaged NBDs that followed the partially opened inward conformation with slightly disengaged NBDs but preceded the fully opened outward transitional state.

Biochemistry

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

He has been hardworking and dutiful but always somewhat disengaged.

The New York Times - Books

Here, we are left somewhat weary and disengaged.

Independent

The disengaged al pastor spit and slightly less full dining room hinted at the truth: Matamoros is better in the daytime, and perhaps on weekends, when the diner-like dining room is packed with families and the joint is jumping: 4508 Fifth Avenue, (718) 8718718718

The New York Times - Food

But I think that when we talk about young people being disengaged, and when we talk about young people not voting, we need to look at it on a slightly deeper level and ask ourselves what are the fundamental issues with this system that is failing to engage young people.

Vice

All others are disengaged.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Call them the disengaged.

The New York Times

They became disengaged.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone as "slightly disengaged", provide context to illustrate the behavior, making it clear that the disengagement is not severe.

Common error

Avoid using "slightly disengaged" when the situation indicates a significant lack of involvement. Choose a more appropriate term like "disinterested" or "uninvolved" if the disengagement is pronounced.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "slightly disengaged" functions as an adjectival phrase, modifying a noun or pronoun to describe a state of being somewhat detached or not fully involved. Ludwig confirms its usability in written English. The word "slightly" acts as a modifier, softening the impact of "disengaged."

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "slightly disengaged" is a grammatically sound and usable phrase for describing a mild state of detachment or lack of involvement. Ludwig AI confirms this, noting its application across various contexts, particularly in News & Media and Scientific domains. While relatively infrequent, understanding its nuanced meaning can enhance precision in your writing. Remember to provide context when using the phrase and avoid overstating the level of disengagement. Related phrases like "somewhat detached" or "mildly uninterested" can offer alternative ways to express similar concepts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

somewhat detached

Indicates a moderate level of detachment, similar in intensity to "slightly disengaged".

mildly uninterested

Focuses on a lack of interest, which can lead to disengagement.

a bit aloof

Suggests a more distant and reserved demeanor, implying a degree of disengagement.

partially uninvolved

Highlights the incomplete nature of the lack of involvement.

somewhat indifferent

Emphasizes a lack of concern or emotional investment.

passively detached

Focuses on detachment as something that happens without active involvement or resistance.

marginally apathetic

Suggests a minimal level of apathy which leads to disengagement.

a little withdrawn

Highlights a subtle tendency to retreat or isolate oneself.

not fully engaged

Directly contrasts with being fully involved, emphasizing a deficiency in engagement.

tepidly responsive

Emphasizes a lack of enthusiasm or energy in response.

FAQs

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

You can use "slightly disengaged" to describe someone who isn't fully participating or paying attention, such as, "During the meeting, he seemed "slightly disengaged" and was looking at his phone".

What's a more formal way to say "slightly disengaged"?

For a more formal tone, consider using "somewhat detached" or "partially uninvolved" to convey a similar meaning of being "slightly disengaged".

What can I say instead of "slightly disengaged" to suggest a lack of interest?

If you want to emphasize a lack of interest, try alternatives like "mildly uninterested" or "somewhat indifferent" instead of "slightly disengaged".

Is it appropriate to use "slightly disengaged" in professional settings?

Yes, "slightly disengaged" can be used in professional settings to describe a moderate lack of involvement, but be mindful of the context. If you need a more professional tone, consider more formal alternatives like "somewhat detached".