Another Word for Slow: 12 Synonyms with Examples
“Slow” means moving or happening without much speed. Synonyms can be neutral, positive (relaxed) or negative (sluggish).
As an adjective: not moving or happening quickly
- unhurried
- leisurely
- gradual
- sluggish
- plodding
- steady
- measured
- lingering
As an adjective: not quick to understand
- dim
- dull
- obtuse
- slow-witted
Need a different word?Look up any word in the synonym finder →
How they differ
Synonyms share a meaning, not always a tone. Here is when to pick each of the main options.
- unhurried
- Slow in a calm, relaxed way; positive.
- gradual
- Happening slowly over time, in small steps.
- sluggish
- Slow and lacking energy; negative.
- measured
- Slow and careful, as in a measured response.
- plodding
- Slow, heavy and dull.
Example sentences
- unhurried: We enjoyed an unhurried breakfast.
- gradual: There has been a gradual improvement in results.
- sluggish: The economy remained sluggish all year.
- measured: She gave a measured response to the criticism.
- plodding: The plot is plodding in the middle chapters.
Opposite of slow
More from WordNet
Less common or more specialised words WordNet lists for other senses of “slow”. Check the meaning before you use one.
adjective: dense, dumb
verb: decelerate, retard, slack, slacken
adverb: slowly, easy, tardily, behind
WordNet 3.1, Princeton University. Used under the WordNet licence.
Frequently asked questions
What is another word for “slow”?
The most useful alternatives are “unhurried”, “leisurely”, “gradual”, “sluggish”, “plodding”. For the main sense (not moving or happening quickly), “unhurried” is usually the closest swap.
What is the difference between “unhurried” and “gradual”?
unhurried: Slow in a calm, relaxed way; positive. gradual: Happening slowly over time, in small steps.
What is the opposite of “slow”?
Common antonyms are “fast”, “quick”, “rapid”, “swift”.