slightly faster

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "slightly faster" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a small increase in speed compared to something else. Example: "The new model is slightly faster than the previous version, making it more efficient for users."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Every Web site appears slightly faster.

The New York Times - Tech

It moves data at a slightly faster rate.

The New York Times - Tech

"I was thinking of playing a slightly faster grace note.

The New Yorker

The AUV — a Bluefin 21 — can move slightly faster.

The Washington Post

Lending to small businesses has grown slightly faster.

The New York Times

Slightly faster and more frugal, still a benchmark hot hatchback.

Independent

Slightly faster, slightly thirstier, even bouncier on bad roads.

Independent

Thereafter, they would grow only slightly faster than inflation.

The Economist

I highly recommend this method because you may be able to get a slightly faster response.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

The other moon will be slightly closer to the planet and slightly faster.

Cornell University

Orchestral polish and discipline are much the same in both, though Klobucar takes slightly faster speeds.

Yale University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing two options or scenarios, use "slightly faster" to convey a modest improvement in speed or efficiency without exaggerating the difference.

Common error

Avoid using "slightly faster" when the speed difference is significant. Opt for stronger terms like "much faster" or "significantly faster" to accurately reflect the magnitude of the improvement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "slightly faster" functions as an adverbial modifier describing the degree to which something is faster. It indicates a comparative adjective, specifying that one thing is only marginally quicker than another. This is consistent with Ludwig AI's assessment of the phrase and the examples provided.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Academia

24%

Science

24%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "slightly faster" is a commonly used phrase to describe a marginal increase in speed. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and suitable for various contexts. Primarily found in news, academic, and scientific publications, its function is to convey a modest comparison. While alternatives like "a bit quicker" and "somewhat speedier" exist, "slightly faster" maintains a neutral tone suitable for diverse audiences. Remember to use it judiciously, ensuring the described speed difference isn't overstated, and to avoid using it as a general replacement for describing overall speed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

marginally faster

Emphasizes the minimal nature of the speed increase; nearly synonymous with "slightly faster".

a little faster

Represents a minor increment in speed, comparable to "slightly faster" but with simpler wording.

a bit quicker

Indicates a marginal increase in speed, similar to "slightly faster" but uses different vocabulary.

minimally faster

Highlights that the improvement in speed is at its lowest threshold.

somewhat speedier

Suggests a moderate increase in speed, employing a more formal tone than "slightly faster".

fractionally faster

Indicates a tiny, almost unmeasurable increase in speed.

barely faster

Highlights the minimal and almost imperceptible nature of the speed improvement.

just a touch faster

Implies a very small difference in speed, using a more descriptive and less formal tone.

a shade faster

Uses a visual metaphor to describe a negligible increase in speed.

incrementally faster

Suggests a gradual increase in speed, implying that the difference builds over time.

FAQs

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

You can use "slightly faster" to compare the speed of two things, indicating a marginal difference. For example, "This new processor is "slightly faster" than the previous model".

What are some alternatives to saying "slightly faster"?

Alternatives include "a bit quicker", "somewhat speedier", or "marginally faster". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired level of formality.

Is it correct to say "slightly fast" instead of "slightly faster"?

No, "slightly faster" is the correct comparative form when comparing speeds. "Slightly fast" could be used to describe something that is a little bit fast in general, but it's less precise.

What's the difference between "slightly faster" and "significantly faster"?

"Slightly faster" indicates a small, often barely noticeable increase in speed. "Significantly faster", on the other hand, implies a substantial and easily noticeable difference in speed.