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slacken

Q: How is the word 'slacken' distinct from other similar verbs?

Some common synonyms of slacken are delay , detain , retard , and slow . While all these words mean "to cause to be late or behind in movement or progress," slacken suggests an easing up or relaxing of power or effort. // on hot days runners slacken their pace

Q: Where would 'delay' be a reasonable alternative to 'slacken'?

Although the words delay and slacken have much in common, delay implies a holding back, usually by interference, from completion or arrival. // bad weather delayed our arrival

Q: When is it sensible to use 'detain' instead of 'slacken'?

While in some cases nearly identical to slacken , detain implies a holding back beyond a reasonable or appointed time. // unexpected business had detained her

Q: When would 'retard' be a good substitute for 'slacken'?

The synonyms retard and slacken are sometimes interchangeable, but retard suggests reduction of speed without actual stopping. // language barriers retarded their progress

Q: How do 'slow' and 'slacken' relate to one another?

Both slow and slacken also imply a reduction of speed, slow often suggesting deliberate intention. // medication slowed the patient's heart rate

verb

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Synonyms & Antonyms of slacken

1 to make less taut

you'll need to slacken the rope a bit to get it free of that post

Synonyms for slacken

Words Related to slacken

Near Antonyms for slacken

constrain,
restrain

Antonyms for slacken

2 to cause to move or proceed at a less rapid pace

drivers need to slacken their speed as they approach the sharp curve

Synonyms for slacken

Words Related to slacken

halt,
stop

bottleneck

Near Antonyms for slacken

Antonyms for slacken

Frequently Asked Questions About slacken

How is the word slacken distinct from other similar verbs?

Some common synonyms of slacken are delay, detain, retard, and slow. While all these words mean "to cause to be late or behind in movement or progress," slacken suggests an easing up or relaxing of power or effort.

on hot days runners slacken their pace