slowly but smoothly

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "slowly but smoothly" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a process or action that takes time but is executed without any issues or interruptions. Example: "The car moved slowly but smoothly along the winding road, allowing the passengers to enjoy the scenic views."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

The massive influx of immigrants from the former Soviet Union is melting slowly but smoothly into Israeli society.

The Economist

The motorcade was going along slowly but smoothly when three muffled shots, which the crowd first mistook for fireworks, cracked through the cheers.

The Guardian

Work slowly but smoothly.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

Since macroscopic (averaged) properties of such shells are constant in circumferential direction but smoothly slowly varying in the axial one, then we deal with shells of a functionally (longitudinally) graded macrostructure.

Composite Structures

"If you're moving really slowly and smoothly or doing something sharp and sudden," she said, "we can translate that into semantically meaningful terms that talk about expression.

The New York Times - Arts

These denied him, he wrenched the ignition key violently, pressed some buttons, and the big car glided slowly and smoothly down the highway.

The Guardian - Books

Activated by a toothed cloverleaf and making a complete revolution in 12 hours, the square wheel displays the hour and rotates so slowly and smoothly that it appears motionless.

The New York Times

You can start off slowly and smoothly, as if on snow, or you can mash the throttle and let the engine rise to its maximum r.p.m. while the car zips ahead.

The New York Times

The Highways Agency's argument that the proposed reduction would reduce traffic congestion is based on the so-called "Guinness theory" – the idea that pouring a pint slowly and smoothly is a quicker way to fill the glass than blasting it and creating a frothy mess.

Independent

"It's going slowly and smoothly and I'm hoping that I will be done before the end of May".

BBC

Since the instantaneous gradient is used to derive the adaptive algorithm, the proposed method works for slowly and smoothly varying linear channels as well.

Digital Signal Processing

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "slowly but smoothly" to describe processes or actions where consistency and lack of disruption are as important as speed. It's particularly effective in technical or instructional contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "slowly but smoothly" in situations where speed is a priority. This phrase implies a deliberate, unhurried pace, which can be inappropriate when prompt action is needed.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "slowly but smoothly" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase. It modifies a verb or verb phrase to describe the manner in which an action is performed. Ludwig shows that this phrase indicates a gradual and unproblematic progression.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Wiki

33%

Science

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "slowly but smoothly" is a grammatically sound and frequently used adverbial phrase that describes a gradual and unproblematic progression. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for various contexts, including News & Media, Wiki, and Science. When writing, remember that this phrase emphasizes consistency and lack of disruption, making it ideal for technical or instructional contexts. Avoid using it where urgency is required. Consider alternatives like "gradually yet seamlessly" or "steadily without a hitch" to add nuance. The sources indicate its relevance in conveying controlled and deliberate action across different domains.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

gradually yet seamlessly

Emphasizes the gradual nature and the absence of disruptions.

leisurely but effortlessly

Highlights the unhurried pace and the ease with which something is done.

steadily without a hitch

Focuses on the consistent progress and the lack of problems.

progressively and fluidly

Stresses the ongoing development and the continuous flow.

calmly and evenly

Highlights the tranquility and balance in the progression.

methodically and cleanly

Suggests a structured approach and a lack of mess or errors.

unhurriedly and gracefully

Emphasizes the relaxed pace and the elegance of the movement.

gently and consistently

Highlights the soft touch and the reliable nature of the process.

deliberately and faultlessly

Focuses on the conscious intent and the absence of mistakes.

measured and flawlessly

Suggests a careful approach and perfect execution.

FAQs

How can I use "slowly but smoothly" in a sentence?

You can use "slowly but smoothly" to describe a process or action that progresses gradually and without problems. For example, "The project is moving "slowly but smoothly" toward completion".

What are some alternatives to "slowly but smoothly"?

Alternatives include phrases like "gradually yet seamlessly", "leisurely but effortlessly", or "steadily without a hitch", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "slowly but smoothly"?

Yes, "slowly but smoothly" is grammatically correct. It uses two adverbs connected by a conjunction to describe the manner in which something is done.

What is the difference between "slowly but smoothly" and "slowly but steadily"?

"Slowly but smoothly" emphasizes the absence of disruptions or problems, while "slowly but steadily" focuses on consistent progress over time, even if there are minor setbacks. The choice depends on whether you want to highlight the process or the outcome.