slow

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "slow" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it as an adjective to describe something that is happening, moving, or proceeding at a low speed. For example: "The slow train crept through the countryside, gradually gaining speed as it went."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It is slow.

The New York Times

Labor's foreign affairs spokeswoman, Tanya Plibersek, said it was "incomprehensible" why Australia was so quick to respond to the crisis in Iraq but so slow to respond to another humanitarian disaster in west Africa.

The Guardian

From air quality, to recycling and climate change, we see only slow, reluctant steps.

The Guardian - Opinion

The city can be hectic, so to slow things down and keep a romantic feel, stay on Heybeliada, one of the Princes Islandss that lie just a short ferry ride from the centre of the city.

The Guardian - Travel

Rudd said there was no cap or limit on the number of asylum seekers PNG had agreed to take, but he expected over time as people smugglers "got the message" the rate of arrivals would slow.

The Guardian

Greece's crisis talks with international creditors have made slow progress and fears remain high that it could default on its debts, precipitating Athens' departure from the eurozone.

The Guardian - Business

Unfortunately though, when I see another rider, I have no idea if they are going to slow down, speed up, stop, run over a pedestrian and say it was my fault or do a wheelie down the wrong side of the road.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Harris suggested that the general election had contributed to the market getting off to something of a slow start this year, which meant many were behind on targets.

The Guardian - Money

Joker and Pyle get their nicknames...and Pyle's slow destruction starts when he can't stop smiling".

The Guardian - Film

After a slow start Real tested Tomas Vaclik for the first time in the 13th minute when a James Rodríguez corner was met by Gareth Bale, with the goalkeeper catching the effort.

The Guardian - Sport

In the distance, two empty lifts rise and fall, out of time with each other, as they make their way towards the roof, then begin a slow descent, disappearing into the shafts and continuing down to the ground floor.

The Guardian - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing progress or change, use "slow" to emphasize the gradual nature of the process. For instance, "The project experienced slow but steady growth."

Common error

Avoid using "slow" in place of the adverb "slowly". While sometimes acceptable in informal speech, "slowly" is the grammatically correct form for modifying verbs. For example, use "The turtle moved slowly" instead of "The turtle moved slow".

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "slow" is as an adjective, modifying nouns to indicate a lack of speed or quickness. It can also function as a verb, meaning to reduce speed. Ludwig AI confirms this usage with examples of "slow" modifying various nouns such as "progress", "start", and "rhythms".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "slow" functions primarily as an adjective to denote a lack of speed or a gradual pace. It maintains a neutral register and finds frequent application in News & Media. While grammatically straightforward, it's essential to distinguish its adjectival use from the adverb "slowly". Ludwig AI confirms its correct and widespread usage, providing numerous examples from reputable sources. When seeking alternatives, consider options like "gradual", "leisurely", or "unhurried", based on the specific context and intended nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unhurried

Emphasizes a lack of rush or pressure, suggesting a relaxed pace.

gradual

Focuses on the incremental nature of progress or change.

leisurely

Implies a relaxed and enjoyable pace, often associated with recreational activities.

measured

Suggests a deliberate and controlled pace, often implying thoughtfulness.

sluggish

Indicates a lack of energy or responsiveness, often implying inefficiency.

deliberate

Highlights intention and careful consideration in pacing or action.

sedate

Implies calmness and dignity in pace or behavior, often associated with older individuals or formal settings.

moderate

Indicates an average or balanced pace, avoiding extremes.

unexpedited

Formally describes a process that has not been accelerated or rushed.

plodding

Implies a heavy, laborious, and often tiresome pace.

FAQs

How can I use "slow" in a sentence?

"Slow" can be used as an adjective to describe something that lacks speed. For example, "The train was "slow" this morning", indicating the train's speed was not fast.

What can I say instead of "slow"?

Alternatives to "slow" include "sluggish", "gradual", or "leisurely", depending on the context. For example, a "slow" pace might also be described as a "leisurely" pace.

Which is correct, "slow" or "slowly"?

"Slow" is an adjective, while "slowly" is an adverb. Use "slow" to describe a noun (e.g., "a slow process"), and use "slowly" to describe how a verb is performed (e.g., "He walked slowly").

What's the difference between "slow" and "sluggish"?

"Slow" generally refers to a lack of speed, while "sluggish" often implies a lack of energy or efficiency. A "slow" computer might simply take time to process, while a "sluggish" computer might be unresponsive or inefficient.