slow

The word “slow” means moving, acting, or happening at a low speed; not fast. In plain terms, not fast — taking a long time to move, act, or understand something.

“Slow” is pronounced sloh (/sloʊ/ in IPA).

Here is “slow” used in a sentence: “The traffic was painfully slow this morning.”

Words with a similar meaning to “slow” include moderate, careful, deliberate, prudent, dilatory and dull.

The opposite of “slow” — its antonyms — are fast, quick, rapid, swift and abrupt.

Depending on how it is used, “slow” can be an adjective and a verb.

The word “slow” comes from Old English. From Old English "slāw," meaning lazy or sluggish, from a Germanic root also linked to dullness and weariness.

“Slow” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A1 level.

The direct opposite of slow is fast, meaning moving or happening at high speed. Related opposites include quick, rapid, swift, and speedy. Which one fits depends on context: a fast car, a quick reply, or a rapid change. All describe something that happens at greater speed than slow.

Slow is neutral on its own and takes meaning from context. It can be negative, as in slow service or a slow computer, or positive, as in a slow, relaxing weekend or slow-cooked food. Even 'slow and steady' can be praise. The setting decides whether slowness is a fault or a virtue.

Slow describes low speed, how quickly something moves or happens. Gradual describes change happening in small steps over time, with an emphasis on steadiness rather than pace. A slow train is simply not fast; a gradual improvement builds bit by bit. Something can be both slow and gradual, but the focus differs.

Yes. Although 'slowly' is the standard adverb, 'slow' also works adverbially in everyday and informal English, as in 'drive slow' or 'go slow'. This usage is common on road signs and in speech. In formal writing, 'slowly' is usually preferred, but 'slow' as an adverb is widely accepted.