Welcome to our comprehensive guide on how to say “very slowly”! Whether you want to perfectly express this concept in a formal or informal setting, we’ve got you covered. Here, you’ll find various tips, examples, and regional variations if necessary. So, let’s dive in and discover different ways to convey this idea at a leisurely pace.
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say Very Slowly
When it comes to formal settings, it’s crucial to choose your words carefully to convey the right level of politeness and clarity. Here are some formal phrases you can use to express “very slowly”:
1. At an Extremely Slow Pace
When you want to emphasize extreme slowness, the phrase “at an extremely slow pace” is a great choice. It denotes a sense of professional communication while conveying the intended idea. For example:
During the presentation, make sure to speak at an extremely slow pace to ensure all participants can follow along with ease.
2. In a Deliberate Manner
To express the notion of being slow and deliberate, the phrase “in a deliberate manner” is suitable. It conveys a sense of intentionality and precision. Here’s an example:
Please read the instructions step by step, in a deliberate manner, to avoid any potential errors.
3. With a Sluggish Tempo
When describing a task that requires a slow pace, you can use the phrase “with a sluggish tempo.” This phrasing suggests a methodical approach and can be used in various formal situations. For instance:
When translating highly technical documents, it’s recommended to work with a sluggish tempo to ensure complete accuracy.
Informal Ways to Say Very Slowly
Informal settings allow for a more relaxed and casual choice of words. Here are some phrases you can use to convey “very slowly” in a less formal manner:
1. At a Snail’s Pace
The phrase “at a snail’s pace” is commonly used in informal conversations to exaggerate slowness. It adds a touch of humor to the expression while maintaining a clear meaning. For example:
Hey, can you explain that one more time? My brain is processing at a snail’s pace today.
2. Like Molasses
Comparing something to molasses, which flows very slowly, is an informal way to convey the concept of slowness. This phrase is often used in casual context to describe the speed of a process or someone’s action. Consider the following example:
Sorry for typing your name like molasses; my fingers aren’t cooperating today.
3. In Slow Motion
When describing an action that appears to be in slow motion, the phrase “in slow motion” is a popular choice. It denotes a noticeable decrease in speed and is widely understood in informal conversations. Here’s an example:
That car crash was terrifying! It felt like everything was happening in slow motion.
Regional Variations
The expressions for “very slowly” might vary slightly depending on the regional dialect or cultural influences. Here are a couple of examples:
1. British English: At a Pedestrian Rate
In British English, the phrase “at a pedestrian rate” is sometimes used to describe something happening very slowly. It relates to the speed of pedestrians and reflects a subtle regional variation. For instance:
The queue moved at a pedestrian rate, and I was starting to worry if I’d make it to the post office in time.
2. Australian English: Slower Than a Wet Week
Australian English has its unique idiomatic expressions. When referring to something happening slowly, Australians might use the phrase “slower than a wet week.” This humorous expression adds a touch of local flavor. Consider this example:
Don’t count on the bus arriving on time. It’s always slower than a wet week around here!
Final Thoughts
Now that you’re equipped with various ways to say “very slowly,” you can use these phrases to express the desired pace in formal or informal contexts. Remember to consider the setting and choose the most appropriate phrasing accordingly. Whether you prefer more formal expressions like “at an extremely slow pace” or casual ones like “at a snail’s pace,” use these words with confidence and enjoy the richness of language.
