slowly getting better

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "slowly getting better" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a gradual improvement in a situation, condition, or person's state over time. Example: "After weeks of rest and treatment, I am slowly getting better from my illness."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

45 human-written examples

But they are slowly getting better.

The Economist

Leetch said his ankle was slowly getting better.

The New York Times - Sports

But she doesn't have ovarian cancer, and she's slowly getting better.

The New York Times

Whether the Republicans like it or not, the economy is slowly getting better.

The New York Times

Are things slowly getting better for women in the Middle East?

The Economist

"We're trying to address some holes in her game, and they're slowly getting better.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

14 human-written examples

"It's slowly gotten better.

The New York Times - Sports

And things slowly got better.

The New York Times

Things will slowly get better, unless they slowly get worse.

The New York Times

But we slowly got better at playing as a team.

The New York Times

Once plagued by paranoia about himself and his family, her son had slowly gotten better.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "slowly getting better", ensure the context clearly indicates what is improving and the reason for the gradual progress. This provides clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "slowly getting better" when the improvement is actually significant or rapid. Choose a more appropriate phrase like "rapidly improving" or "making significant strides" to accurately reflect the situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "slowly getting better" functions as a verb phrase indicating a process of gradual improvement. It describes something in a state of positive change, but at a measured, unhurried pace. As Ludwig AI confirms, this is a common expression.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

73%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Academia

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "slowly getting better" is a common and versatile verb phrase used to describe a gradual improvement in various situations. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is correct and widely applicable. It's often used in news and media, but also appears in scientific and business contexts. When using this phrase, ensure the context clearly indicates what is improving and why the progress is slow. Be mindful not to overstate the improvement if it is actually significant or rapid. Consider alternatives like ""gradually improving"" or ""steadily progressing"" to fine-tune the nuance. Overall, "slowly getting better" is a reliable way to express cautious optimism.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

gradually improving

Emphasizes the process of improvement happening in small increments.

steadily progressing

Focuses on the consistent nature of the progress, without necessarily implying it's slow.

making slow progress

Highlights the fact that progress is being made, despite being slow.

bit by bit improving

Emphasizes the incremental nature of the improvement, suggesting it's happening in small steps.

inching towards recovery

Focuses on the recovery aspect, portraying a slow and cautious movement towards it.

improving little by little

Repeats the concept of improvement in small increments for emphasis.

turning a corner

Suggests a shift from negative to positive, though not necessarily implying a slow pace.

on the mend

Specifically refers to recovering from an illness or injury.

looking up

Indicates that the situation is becoming more positive.

things are picking up

Implies a general improvement in conditions or circumstances, potentially at a slow pace.

FAQs

How can I use "slowly getting better" in a sentence?

You can use "slowly getting better" to describe a gradual improvement in health, economic conditions, or any situation that is improving incrementally. For example: "After the surgery, his health is "slowly getting better"." or "The economy is "slowly getting better" after the recession."

What is a good alternative to "slowly getting better"?

Alternatives include "gradually improving", "steadily progressing", or "making slow progress". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "slowly getting well" instead of "slowly getting better"?

While "slowly getting better" is more versatile and commonly used in various contexts, "slowly getting well" specifically refers to recovering from an illness or injury. Therefore, the appropriateness depends on the context.

What's the difference between "slowly getting better" and "quickly getting better"?

"Slowly getting better" emphasizes the gradual nature of the improvement, while "quickly getting better" indicates that the improvement is happening rapidly. The choice depends on the actual pace of the improvement.