What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
adagio
Example
The pianist played the piece in adagio tempo. [adagio: noun]
Example
The dancers moved gracefully to the adagio music. [adagio: adjective]
slowly
Example
The car slowed down as it approached the intersection. [slowly: adverb]
Example
She walked slowly along the beach, enjoying the scenery. [slowly: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Slowly is a more common word than adagio in everyday language. Slowly is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while adagio is less common and typically used in artistic or musical settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between adagio and slowly?
Adagio is a more formal term than slowly. It is often used in the context of music or dance, which are more formal settings. Slowly, on the other hand, is more casual and commonly used in everyday language.