slow burn

USAGE SUMMARY

"slow burn" is a valid phrase in written English.
It is an idiom that means to become gradually and increasingly angry. For example, "He was filled with a slow burn of rage when he saw what his opponent had done."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

53 human-written examples

It's a slow burn.

The New York Times - Books

It's this slow burn.

The Guardian

It was a slow burn.

Independent

The slow burn turns hot.

The New York Times

Do a slow burn at this point.

The New York Times

But obviously literature is a slow burn.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

7 human-written examples

This is a slow-burn thing".

The New York Times - Books

But this is slow-burn stuff.

The Guardian

Slow-burn love is a beautiful thing.

The Guardian - Music

A masterclass in slow-burn suspense.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Theirs has been a slow-burn success.

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "slow burn" to describe situations or relationships where tension, excitement, or other feelings build gradually over time, rather than appearing suddenly.

Common error

Avoid using "slow burn" to describe situations lacking eventual intensity. The phrase implies a gradual increase to a significant climax or resolution.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "slow burn" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often used to describe a gradual process or development. It can also function adjectivally, modifying another noun, as seen in examples from Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

94%

Formal & Business

3%

Academia

1%

Less common in

Science

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "slow burn" is a common idiom used to describe something that develops gradually over time, often with increasing intensity. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage across various contexts, particularly in news and media. While generally neutral in register, "slow burn" is most effective when describing situations with a clear build-up and eventual climax. When writing, consider the intensity aspect of the phrase to ensure it accurately reflects the scenario you are describing. Alternatives such as "gradual increase" or "mounting tension" may be more appropriate if the intensity is not a key element.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

simmering resentment

Specifically refers to anger that is slowly building up.

mounting tension

Emphasizes the building suspense or pressure over time.

long-term buildup

Highlights that the process develops for a long period of time.

growing anticipation

Emphasizes the gradual increase in excitement or expectation.

gradual increase

Focuses on the gradual aspect, removing the implication of eventual intensity.

gradual development

Stresses the slow unfolding or evolution of something.

creeping feeling

Highlights the slow and subtle onset of a sensation or emotion.

step-by-step progression

Focuses on the incremental and sequential nature of the development.

delayed reaction

Shifts the focus to the time lag before a response or effect is observed.

slow but steady

Highlights the unhurried yet consistent nature of progress.

FAQs

How can I use "slow burn" in a sentence?

You can use "slow burn" to describe something that develops gradually over time, such as a relationship or a plot in a movie. For example, "Their relationship was a "slow burn", starting as friendship and eventually turning into love".

What are some alternatives to "slow burn"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "gradual increase", "mounting tension", or "simmering resentment".

Is "slow burn" formal or informal?

"Slow burn" is generally considered a neutral phrase, suitable for both informal and some formal contexts, though it's best to avoid it in highly formal or academic writing.

What does "slow burn" mean in the context of a relationship?

In a relationship, "slow burn" refers to a romance that develops gradually, building in intensity over time rather than igniting quickly. It emphasizes the deepening connection and growing feelings between the individuals involved.