WordGarden.ioslowdown
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /slˈəʊdaʊn/
US
- /ˈsloʊˌdaʊn/
Meanings
Noun
a reduction in speed, growth, or activity
a period of weaker economic growth or business activity
sluggish performance by a computer, phone, app, or other digital system
More meaningsFewer meanings
a deliberate reduction in work pace by employees as a protest tactic
Beyond the definition
A "slowdown" isn't always about cars on the highway. It can mean any reduction in speed, pace, or activity. Think of a runner getting tired and having a slowdown in their stride, or an economy facing a slowdown in growth. Sometimes it's intentional, like easing off the gas pedal. Other times it's unexpected, like a slowdown in production because of supply chain problems.
You might experience a personal slowdown when you're feeling overwhelmed and need to take things more easily. News reports also often talk about an economic slowdown, meaning businesses are growing more slowly than before. It's all about losing momentum.
The word "slowdown" describes a reduction in speed, activity, or progress. While it's commonly associated with traffic – like a highway slowdown caused by an accident – its applications extend far beyond the road.
A slowdown can be intentional, a deliberate act of easing off. A driver may slow down near a school zone, or a company might put a temporary slowdown on hiring during uncertain economic times.
However, a slowdown often implies something unexpected or undesirable. An economic slowdown signals reduced growth and potential hardship. A cognitive slowdown can be a symptom of aging or illness. In manufacturing, a slowdown on the assembly line means fewer products are being made.
The term also has specific usage in labor relations. A "work slowdown" is a tactic used by employees to protest working conditions – they continue to work, but at a deliberately reduced pace. This differs from a strike, where work stops altogether.
So whether it's a deliberate adjustment or an unwelcome obstacle, a slowdown signifies a decrease in momentum: a drop in speed, activity, or progress. It's a word that speaks to the ebb and flow of life, business, and everything in between.
Examples
- 1
Traffic
There was a slowdown on the highway after the accident.
- 2
Seasonal business
The cafe usually has a slowdown in August, when many people leave the city.
- 3
Sales forecast
The company is preparing for a slowdown in sales next quarter.
- 4
Economy
Many small businesses were hit hard by the recent economic slowdown.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Labor protest
The workers organized a slowdown to protest the new schedule.
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- economic slowdown
- slowdown in growth
- traffic slowdown
- work slowdown
Word family
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Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- slowdownnoun
Forms
- slowdownspluralnoun