slow down the pace

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "slow down the pace" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to suggest that someone should take it slower, or do something more slowly, than they are currently doing. For example: "If you want to make sure you properly absorb the material, you should slow down the pace a bit."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I need to slow down the pace.

The New York Times - Magazine

You learned how to sabotage production, slow down the pace, and you learned politics.

The Guardian

We've forced them to slow down the pace of their operations".

The New York Times

He wants to slow down the pace of expansion and improve the "customer experience" in America, while accelerating expansion overseas.

The Economist

Film-makers need to slow down the pace, shoot at a higher frame rate, or risk their audiences feeling nauseous.

Independent

Republicans have stalled on many nominations, fought others, and mostly done their best to slow down the pace.

The New Yorker

That ambition now looks in doubt.Mr Schultz says he wants to slow down the pace of expansion in America and to close struggling locations while accelerating expansion overseas.

The Economist

"We do not want to slow down the pace of such introductions but quality is foremost," he said through an interpreter.

The New York Times

But around mile five, he saw three Ethiopian runners go to the head of the lead pack and slow down the pace.

The New Yorker

He's also shrewd enough to slow down the pace for some credible characterizations, especially of psychologically damaged people like Thomas and Nicole.

The New York Times - Books

Mr. Sarkozy has already said that he will slow down the pace of structural changes, concentrating on a needed pension overhaul.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "slow down the pace" in writing, ensure that the context clearly indicates what is being slowed down. For example, "slow down the pace of development" or "slow down the pace of your breathing".

Common error

While "slow down the pace" is versatile, avoid using it excessively in highly formal or academic writing. Opt for more precise alternatives like "decelerate" or "moderate" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "slow down the pace" functions primarily as a verb phrase, often used to advise or suggest a reduction in speed or intensity. As evidenced by Ludwig, it is applicable across numerous contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

3%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "slow down the pace" is a versatile and frequently used expression that advises a reduction in speed or intensity. It's grammatically correct and applicable in various contexts, from news and media to science and everyday conversation. While generally neutral in register, more formal alternatives may be preferable in highly academic settings. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is well-established and readily understood.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

take things slower

A more casual and direct way of suggesting a reduction in speed.

decelerate the tempo

Focuses on reducing the tempo or rhythm of an activity.

decrease the tempo

Similar to "decelerate the tempo" but uses a different verb.

moderate the speed

Implies a more controlled and measured reduction in speed.

reduce the velocity

Emphasizes decreasing the rate of movement or action.

curtail the momentum

Suggests limiting the force or impetus behind an activity.

lessen the intensity

Shifts the focus to reducing the strength or degree of something.

ease off the pressure

Indicates a reduction in stress or urgency.

slack off the rhythm

Informal, implies lessening intensity in a musical or performance context.

retard the progress

Focuses on delaying advancement or development.

FAQs

How can I use "slow down the pace" in a sentence?

You can use "slow down the pace" to suggest reducing the speed or intensity of an activity. For example, "We need to "slow down the pace" of development to ensure sustainability."

What are some alternatives to "slow down the pace"?

Alternatives include "take things slower", "decelerate the tempo", or "moderate the speed" depending on the specific context.

Is "slow down the pace" appropriate for formal writing?

While generally acceptable, it might be better to use more formal alternatives like "reduce the velocity" or "curtail the momentum" in strictly formal or academic contexts.

What does it mean to "slow down the pace" in a project management context?

In project management, to "slow down the pace" means to reduce the speed or intensity of project activities, often to improve quality, manage resources, or address unforeseen challenges.