the slowness

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'the slowness' is correct and can be used in written English.
It can be used when referring to the state of moving or acting slowly. For example, "The slowness of the ship's crossing was agonizing."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

The slowness isn't boring, though.

The New York Times - Arts

The slowness is a difficulty.

The Guardian

The slowness of Chardin's production was legendary.

The New York Times - Arts

Even more irksome was the slowness.

The New York Times

I like the slowness of night.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The slowness of their response was unacceptable in whatever context.

The New York Times - Sports

It was the slowness of him in everything.

The New York Times

All with the slowness, and the inevitability, of geologic time.

The New York Times

The slowness of this pitch isn't helping the South Africans.

The Guardian - Sport

However, she understands the slowness to mobilise people.

The Guardian

"The slowness is to maintain a sense of spirituality.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "the slowness" when you want to emphasize the quality or state of being slow as a general concept or characteristic.

Common error

Avoid using "the slowness" as a direct substitute for verbs like "slowing" or adverbs like "slowly". Ensure it functions as a noun describing the quality of being slow, not the action itself.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the slowness" primarily functions as a noun phrase. It refers to the quality or state of being slow. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness, supported by numerous examples demonstrating its use in varied contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the slowness" is a grammatically correct noun phrase widely used across various contexts to describe the quality or state of being slow. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase follows standard grammar rules. It is particularly common in news and media, scientific writing, and formal business contexts. While alternatives like "sluggishness" or "lack of speed" exist, "the slowness" emphasizes the abstract concept itself. When writing, ensure that "the slowness" functions as a noun and accurately conveys the intended meaning, avoid substituting it directly for verbs or adverbs. The phrase has a generally neutral register suitable for a range of audiences, and is considered a very common expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the sluggishness

Replaces "slowness" with a synonym emphasizing a lack of energy or activity.

the lack of speed

Uses a more descriptive phrase to convey the idea of not being fast.

the deliberate pace

Highlights the intention behind being slow, suggesting carefulness or thoughtfulness.

the unhurried pace

Emphasizes a deliberate lack of haste, often with a positive connotation.

the gradual nature

Focuses on the step-by-step quality of something happening slowly.

the creeping progress

Highlights the slow and almost imperceptible advancement.

the measured rhythm

Implies a controlled and even slowness, often in artistic or performance contexts.

the tortoise-like movement

Uses a simile to illustrate extreme slowness.

the leisurely tempo

Suggests a relaxed and unforced slowness, especially in rhythmic contexts.

the leaden footedness

Metaphorically describes slowness as heavy and cumbersome.

FAQs

How can I use "the slowness" in a sentence?

You can use "the slowness" to describe the quality or state of something moving or progressing slowly. For example, "The slowness of the economic recovery was concerning" or "The slowness of the software made it frustrating to use".

What are some alternatives to "the slowness"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "the sluggishness", "the lack of speed", or "the unhurried pace".

Is it ever incorrect to use "the slowness"?

While grammatically correct, using "the slowness" might sound awkward in some contexts. Consider whether a more direct word choice, such as "sluggishness" or "lack of speed", might be more appropriate.

What does "the slowness" emphasize compared to just saying something is "slow"?

"The slowness" emphasizes the quality or characteristic of being slow, making it a noun. Saying something is "slow" is a direct description, but "the slowness" focuses on the abstract concept. For instance, "the slowness" can become the subject of the sentence.