slow-moving

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "slow-moving" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that progresses at a slow pace, whether it's a physical object, a process, or a situation. Example: "The slow-moving train took longer than expected to reach its destination."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

47 human-written examples

These Zekes are certainly not slow-moving.

The New Yorker

This chain was incredibly slow-moving.

The New York Times - Magazine

He is a big man, slow-moving.

The New Yorker

They are slow-moving full-form vessels.

Ship Design and Performance for Masters and Mates

Go clog the interstates with slow-moving air-cooled VWs.

WikiHow

A slow-moving, white-haired woman appeared.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

12 human-written examples

Possibly slow moving stuff.

TechCrunch

Motherhood days are stretched out and slow moving.

Huffington Post

Our boat was slow, moving between Islands, in a peaceful.

The New Yorker

Science is complex and slow moving.

Huffington Post

This side story is also slow moving.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing processes or changes, use "slow-moving" to emphasize the lack of rapid progress or transformation. For instance, "The slow-moving legislative process frustrated many citizens."

Common error

Avoid using "slow-moving" excessively in character dialogue, as it can sound unnatural. Opt for more descriptive and character-specific language to convey slowness. Instead of saying "That car is so slow-moving!" consider "That car crawls along like a snail!"

Linguistic Context

The phrase "slow-moving" primarily functions as a compound adjective. It modifies nouns to describe something characterized by its lack of speed or its gradual pace. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and widespread use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Wiki

18%

Encyclopedias

12%

Less common in

Science

8%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "slow-moving" is a versatile and commonly used adjective phrase to describe something lacking speed or progressing gradually. Ludwig AI confirms it is grammatically correct and applicable across diverse contexts, mainly in news, wikis and encyclopedias. While often neutral, writers should be mindful of overusing it in dialogue and consider context-specific alternatives like "leisurely paced" or "gradual". By understanding its function and usage patterns, you can effectively use "slow-moving" to enhance your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

leisurely paced

Suggests a relaxed and unhurried tempo.

unhurried

Emphasizes the absence of haste or urgency.

gradual

Implies a steady and incremental progression.

deliberate

Conveys a sense of intention and carefulness in movement.

measured

Conveys a controlled and deliberate pace.

plodding

Suggests a heavy and laborious slowness.

lumbering

Describes a slow and awkward movement, often associated with large objects or creatures.

sedate

Implies a calm and dignified slowness.

creeping

Suggests a slow, almost imperceptible movement.

snail-paced

An informal way to describe extreme slowness.

FAQs

How can I use "slow-moving" in a sentence?

You can use "slow-moving" to describe something progressing at a low speed, such as "The slow-moving vehicle caused a traffic jam", or to describe processes, as in "The legislative process is often slow-moving".

What are some synonyms for "slow-moving"?

Alternatives for "slow-moving" include "leisurely paced", "gradual", or "unhurried", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to use "slow moving" instead of "slow-moving"?

While "slow moving" can sometimes be used, "slow-moving" is generally preferred as a compound adjective preceding a noun (e.g., "a slow-moving train"). Using a hyphen clarifies that "slow" modifies "moving", which together modify the noun.

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

"Slow-moving" generally describes literal speed or progress, while "sluggish" often implies a lack of energy or vitality. You might describe a train as "slow-moving", but a person as "sluggish" after a large meal.