What is the difference between "slow up" and "slow down"? This has been one of many interesting questions from a Japanese friend who is relatively new to English.

Also, what is that doubt that runs through my mind when posting to this group that my language construction is all fouled up?

michaelo

In my alleged mind, michaelo, slow up kind of carries the implication that a halt may be impending, as in,
"Slow up, I think we're getting near that antique store I wanted to go into".
Slow down, to me, doesn't necessarily carry that. As in,
"Slow down, you're driving way too fast."

But these are not set in concrete, typical for English I suppose.

Hi, Michaelo. I'm basically in agreement with Jackie. But, I'd like to reply to your other comment. I, too, hesitate and think twice about anything I want to put out on this board, figuring it's just not "intelligent enough" for the readership. But, I really love "all things word" as they say, so I'll just take my chances. And, I encourage you to do the same.

It might be a difference between UK and US English. I don't think I would ever say slow up, only slow down. I would agree with Jackie though, that slow down does imply not actually stopping.

Bingley

This is for all those who have not posted because they think that somehow their thoughts are not worthy.*

I will say that it is advisable to "think twice", and carefully review what you say (especially if you make as many mistakes as I do in using Markup).
I also very much understand the fear: one of my earliest posts said that, before I found this site, I fancied myself to be something of a wordsmith. But Anu's, and other people's, put my knowledge to shame.
BUT--I would ask each and every one of you, PLEASE don't let fear hold you back from posting! There are no
restrictions as to who has the right to post here. Your thoughts are as good as anyone else's. No one else has had the experiences you have had, and if you don't share them, how are we to learn about them?
I expect there are subscribers who primarily are looking for
factual information only. But I know for a fact that many of us enjoy the human interaction/exchange as much or more.
Believe me, there are people here who will positively
embrace new ideas/input!

*Doesn't matter if none of your words has 14 syllables--you still have things to share that none of us have learned.