delay implies a holding back, usually by interference, from completion or arrival.
bad weather delayed our arrival
retard suggests reduction of speed without actual stopping.
language barriers retarded their progress
slow and slacken also imply a reduction of speed, slow often suggesting deliberate intention
medication slowed the patient's heart rate
, slacken an easing up or relaxing of power or effort.
on hot days runners slacken their pace
detain implies a holding back beyond a reasonable or appointed time.
unexpected business had detained her
Example Sentences
Sales show no sign of slackening. As he began to relax, his grip on the steering wheel slackened. The captain ordered us to slacken the sails.
Recent Examples on the WebThe policies weaken; people lose interest in following them, spurring officials to slacken even more. Katherine J. Wu, The Atlantic, 16 Aug. 2022 Easterly breezes slacken through the night, mainly staying below 5 mph. A. Camden Walker, Washington Post, 13 May 2022 Winds slacken somewhat Friday night with colder lows in the upper 30s to low 40s.Washington Post, 23 Mar. 2022 Winds should begin to slacken overnight as the high pressure begins to weaken east of the Cascades.oregonlive, 28 Jan. 2022 Although the older variant is clinging on for dear life in a few pockets, its grasp will likely continue to slacken and slip under the weight of its craftier cousin. Katherine J. Wu, The Atlantic, 27 Jan. 2022 Heavy rain should slacken in the area by late morning as a warm front pushes the system north into British Columbia.oregonlive, 12 Jan. 2022 Norway’s power needs are usually largely met by a network of hydroelectric plants, but output can slacken when reservoirs run low.New York Times, 4 Jan. 2022 Tomorrow night: Skies are mainly clear, and winds should slacken compared to the day.Washington Post, 18 Dec. 2021 See More