slows down

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "slows down" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe the action of reducing speed or pace, either literally or metaphorically. Example: "The car slows down as it approaches the traffic light."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

The train slows down.

Independent

The game slows down.

The New York Times - Sports

When GDP slows down, so do they.

The Economist

If China slows down, Japan will crash".

The New York Times

He pauses and slows down for emphasis.

The Guardian - Tech

Time slows down and time accelerates".

The New Yorker

Your phone slows down.

TechCrunch

This slows down the optimization process.

Journal of Inequalities and Applications

This slows down the rule execution.

Journal of Internet Services and Applications

As a consequence, our science slows down.

Science Magazine

It just slows down the whole process.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "slows down" to describe not only physical speed, but also metaphorical progress or intensity. For instance, "The bad news slowed down our enthusiasm."

Common error

While "slows down" is versatile, avoid overuse in formal or scientific writing. Opt for more precise terms like "decelerates", "diminishes", or "reduces" to maintain clarity and professionalism.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "slows down" functions as a verb phrase, specifically the third-person singular present tense form of the phrasal verb "slow down". According to Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and usable in written English, with the ability to describe a reduction in speed or pace, either literally or metaphorically.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Science

31%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "slows down" is a versatile and commonly used verb phrase that describes a reduction in speed, pace, or intensity. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and broad applicability. It is found across various contexts, from news and media to scientific publications, making it a reliable choice for expressing deceleration in both literal and metaphorical senses. While more formal writing may sometimes benefit from more precise vocabulary, "slows down" remains a standard and widely understood expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

decelerates

This single word synonym directly implies a reduction in speed. In some contexts it could give more scientific or technical tone than "slows down".

reduces speed

A more explicit and literal way of expressing the same concept, useful for clarity.

eases off

Suggests a more gradual and gentle reduction in pace or intensity.

loses momentum

This implies a decrease in forward motion, but can also be used metaphorically.

winds down

This implies a gradual reduction in activity or intensity, often towards a final state.

tapers off

This indicates a gradual decrease, often in quantity or intensity.

becomes sluggish

Suggests a decrease in activity or efficiency, often due to some impediment.

lags

Implies falling behind or a reduction in progress compared to a previous rate.

grinds to a halt

Indicates a very gradual and possibly reluctant stop, emphasizing the effort involved in stopping.

diminishes

Indicates a general reduction in something, like intensity, importance or size.

FAQs

How can I use "slows down" in a sentence?

The phrase "slows down" can be used to describe a decrease in speed, pace, or progress. For example, "The car "slows down" as it approaches the intersection" or "The economic crisis "slows down" the growth of many companies".

What are some alternatives to "slows down"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "decelerates", "reduces speed", or "eases off". Choose the word that best fits the specific meaning you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "slows down" or should I use another phrase?

The phrase "slows down" is generally correct and widely accepted in both formal and informal contexts. Ludwig confirms that the phrase is usable in written English and you can use it to describe the action of reducing speed or pace, either literally or metaphorically.

What's the difference between "slows down" and "comes to a halt"?

"Slows down" implies a reduction in speed or pace, but not necessarily a complete stop. "Comes to a halt", on the other hand, means that something stops completely. For example, "The train "slows down" before the station, then "comes to a halt"".