slightly unconvincing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "slightly unconvincing" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is not entirely persuasive or credible, often in the context of arguments, presentations, or performances. Example: "While the speaker made some valid points, his overall argument was slightly unconvincing."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

Aside from a thin veneer of slightly unconvincing psychological grounding to validate the nudity, that's it.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

In publicly sharing her new-found, and slightly unconvincing, grasp of spirituality, Roberts was at least keeping in character.

Independent

After a slightly unconvincing start to life under Puel this was their fourth successive victory in all competitions.

The Guardian - Sport

Hundreds of yards of shelves were left behind, listed, fine and untouchable, requiring the invention of a slightly unconvincing "enlightenment gallery" to fill the space.

The Guardian - Arts

Given a fake bomb was found near the training ground with a photograph of Hulk taped to it, that is a slightly unconvincing statement, but what is significant is that Zenit's largest fan group is apparently desperate not to be perceived as racist.

The Guardian - Sport

But the main events are the long story of his philandering, plenty of slightly unconvincing admissions that he has been a very bad man, and the fact that Rachel Hunter got her own back on behalf of all womankind when she was the first notable woman to dump him, causing him such a fit of the existential vapours that he did some very strange things indeed.

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

Theories that have no prior strike us as somewhat unconvincing.

Biology Direct

Clarke: bland and unconvincing Our poll tells a slightly different story, with a one percentage point over Milband, but @BryantPedia detected a closeness between the two men that may come in handy from 7 May.

The Guardian

This argument is unconvincing.

Columbia University

But this is unconvincing.

The New York Times

But it is unconvincing.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the context when using "slightly unconvincing". In formal settings, ensure your critique is supported by evidence or reasoning to maintain credibility.

Common error

Avoid using "slightly unconvincing" when the situation warrants a stronger, more direct assessment. It can dilute the impact of your critique if the issue is more significant.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "slightly unconvincing" functions as an adjectival phrase used to modify a noun, indicating that something is not entirely persuasive or believable. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Academia

7%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "slightly unconvincing" serves as a nuanced way to express doubt or reservation. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is grammatically correct and suitable for a variety of contexts, particularly in news, media, and scientific writing. While it is not exceedingly common, its usage is appropriate when a softened critique is desired. Alternatives include phrases like "somewhat unpersuasive" or "not entirely believable". When using this phrase, ensure it aligns with the context, avoiding overuse in situations that require a more direct or stronger assessment. Ludwig's examples highlight its versatility and proper application, confirming its place as a valuable tool in expressing nuanced opinions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Incompletely convincing

Directly addresses the lack of complete conviction, suggesting that there are lingering doubts or uncertainties.

Not wholly persuasive

Similar to "incompletely convincing" but uses "wholly" instead of "completely" for a slightly different emphasis.

Somewhat unpersuasive

Replaces "convincing" with "persuasive" and "slightly" with "somewhat", suggesting a similar but subtly different nuance in the degree of persuasiveness.

Not entirely believable

Shifts the focus from convincing to believability, conveying a sense that something is not fully credible.

A bit dubious

Uses a more informal tone with "a bit" and "dubious", indicating a level of doubt or skepticism.

Questionable to some extent

Emphasizes the uncertainty and the possibility of disagreement regarding the convincing nature of something.

Marginally credible

Focuses on the credibility aspect, suggesting that something barely meets the threshold of being believable.

Weakly supported

Highlights the lack of strong evidence or reasoning to back up a claim or argument.

Faintly plausible

Suggests a very low level of believability, implying that something is barely conceivable.

Superficially persuasive

Indicates that something appears convincing at first glance, but lacks depth or substance upon closer examination.

FAQs

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

You can use "slightly unconvincing" to describe arguments, explanations, or performances that are not entirely persuasive. For example, "While the presentation was well-prepared, some of the data seemed "slightly unconvincing"".

What are some alternatives to "slightly unconvincing"?

Alternatives include "somewhat unpersuasive", "not entirely believable", or "a bit dubious", depending on the specific context and desired level of formality.

Is it better to say "slightly unconvincing" or "unconvincing"?

The choice depends on the degree of doubt you wish to express. "Unconvincing" indicates a stronger lack of persuasiveness, while "slightly unconvincing" suggests a milder reservation.

When is it appropriate to use "slightly unconvincing" in writing?

"Slightly unconvincing" is suitable when you want to express a subtle level of doubt or skepticism without being overly critical or dismissive. It's often used in reviews, analyses, and evaluations where a nuanced assessment is required.