somewhat slower

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "somewhat slower" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a relative decrease in speed or pace compared to something else. Example: "The new model is somewhat slower than the previous version, but it offers better stability."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

And note that "somewhat slower pace".

The New York Times

In the credit markets, the adjustment has been somewhat slower.

The New York Times

"But people are somewhat slower to make decisions".

The New York Times

Party business has been somewhat slower to bounce back.

The New York Times - Style

It generally gives more realistic results but is somewhat slower.

Encyclopedia Britannica

This one is a more accurate approximation, but is somewhat slower.

University of California, Berkeley

The price of co-ops has also increased but at a somewhat slower rate.

The New York Times

"Global growth could be somewhat slower in the years ahead if protectionism takes hold.

The Guardian

What a cultural treasure to see with the somewhat slower pace of winter.

The New York Times

Fluorescent cells proliferate somewhat slower than non-fluorescent cells – an effect largely attributed to transfection.

Nature

That is somewhat slower than the 40percentt growth clocked in the previous quarter.

The New York Times - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing two processes or items, use "somewhat slower" to indicate a slight difference in speed without implying a significant disadvantage. It suggests a minor trade-off, rather than a major drawback.

Common error

Avoid using "somewhat slower" when the difference in speed is actually substantial. This can mislead the reader or listener. Choose a more accurate descriptor like "significantly slower" or "much slower" if appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "somewhat slower" functions as an adverbial modifier intensifying the adjective "slower". This construction modifies a verb or noun by indicating a degree of reduced speed. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's grammatically correct and readily usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "somewhat slower" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that functions as an adverbial modifier, indicating a slight reduction in speed. As Ludwig AI confirms, its widespread usage across various contexts, particularly in News & Media and Science, makes it a versatile choice for conveying subtle comparative differences. When using this phrase, consider the degree of slowness and choose more precise alternatives if the difference is more substantial. Understanding these nuances will improve clarity and accuracy in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a bit slower

Indicates a slightly less pronounced difference in speed.

slightly slower

Synonymous, but with an emphasis on a minor difference.

marginally slower

Highlights that the difference in speed is very small.

moderately slower

Suggests a more noticeable, but not drastic, decrease in speed.

noticeably slower

Emphasizes that the difference in speed is easily observed.

relatively slower

Implies a comparison to another speed or rate.

appreciably slower

Highlights a significant and measurable difference in speed.

somewhat less rapid

Replaces "slower" with a synonym to vary wording.

a shade slower

An informal way of expressing a minor difference in speed.

minimally slower

Emphasizes the extremely small difference in speed or rate.

FAQs

How can I use "somewhat slower" in a sentence?

You can use "somewhat slower" to compare the speed or pace of two things, indicating a slight difference. For example, "The new model is "somewhat slower", but it offers better battery life".

What's a good alternative to "somewhat slower"?

Alternatives include "a bit slower", "slightly slower", or "marginally slower", depending on the context and the degree of difference you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "little slower" instead of "somewhat slower"?

While "little slower" isn't grammatically incorrect, ""somewhat slower"" is generally preferred in more formal writing and implies a more nuanced difference. "Little slower" might sound more casual.

When should I use "somewhat slower" versus "much slower"?

"Somewhat slower" should be used when the difference in speed is minor and doesn't significantly impact the overall performance. "Much slower" should be used when the speed difference is significant and has a noticeable impact.