Guide 43 / 200 5 swaps Formal register
Professional words for “slow”
Five adjectives for different kinds of slow.
i · When it mattersTwo lines, no filler
A slow process is gradual; a slow server is sluggish; a slow decision is deliberate. Pick the word that explains rather than complains.
ii · The swaps5 ways
- 01Gradual neutral
slow in a measured, expected way
A gradual rollout over four weeks.
- 02Sluggish neutral
below expected pace — slightly negative
Sluggish response times at peak.
- 03Deliberate formal
slow because careful
A deliberate cadence for governance changes.
- 04Protracted formal
longer than wanted
A protracted negotiation.
- 05Phased neutral
intentionally staged
A phased transition to the new system.