Top 35 Slang For Slow Down – Meaning & Usage

Feeling overwhelmed by the fast pace of life? Sometimes, we all need to take a breather and slow down. Our team has put together a list of trendy slang terms that can help you convey the need to chill out in style. So, kick back, relax, and get ready to upgrade your vocabulary with these fresh expressions for slowing down.

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1. Chill out

This phrase is used to tell someone to relax or calm down in a casual and friendly way.

For example, if someone is stressing about a deadline, you might say, “Hey, chill out. You’ve got plenty of time.”
In a heated argument, someone might say, “Let’s all just chill out and talk about this calmly.”
If a friend is overreacting to a small issue, you could say, “Come on, don’t get worked up. Just chill out.”

2. Take it easy

This phrase is used to advise someone to slow down and take a break or relax.

For instance, if someone is working long hours, you might say, “You should take it easy and give yourself some rest.”
If a friend is constantly busy and stressed, you could suggest, “Why don’t you take it easy this weekend and do something you enjoy?”
After a strenuous workout, a trainer might say, “Great job, but now it’s time to take it easy and let your body recover.”

3. Ease up

This phrase is used to encourage someone to reduce their intensity or pressure in a situation.

For example, if someone is being too aggressive in a game, you might say, “Hey, ease up a bit. It’s just a friendly match.”
In a work environment, a colleague might advise, “You need to ease up on yourself and take breaks to avoid burnout.”
If someone is criticizing themselves too harshly, you could say, “Ease up on yourself. Everyone makes mistakes.”

4. Cool your jets

This phrase is used to tell someone to calm down or slow down, often when they are being impatient or agitated.

For instance, if someone is getting angry and impatient, you might say, “Hey, cool your jets. We’ll get there soon.”
In a situation where someone is rushing and making mistakes, you could advise, “Take a deep breath and cool your jets. It’s better to do things carefully.”
If a friend is getting overly excited about something, you could playfully say, “Alright, cool your jets. Let’s not get too carried away.”

5. Pump the brakes

This phrase is used to tell someone to slow down or take it easy, especially when they are moving too quickly or being too intense.

For example, if someone is rushing through a task, you might say, “Hey, pump the brakes and make sure you’re doing it right.”
In a situation where someone is getting too emotional, you could say, “Take a step back and pump the brakes. Let’s approach this calmly.”
If a friend is talking too fast and overwhelming you, you could jokingly say, “Alright, pump the brakes. I can’t keep up with all that information.”

6. Hold your horses

This phrase is used to tell someone to be patient or to slow down. It originated from the need to hold onto the reins of a horse to prevent it from running too fast.

For example, if someone is rushing to make a decision, you might say, “Hold your horses, let’s think this through.”
In a conversation about a new project, someone might say, “We need to hold our horses and make sure we have a solid plan.”
If someone is speaking too quickly, you could say, “Hold your horses, I can’t understand you.”

7. Back off

This phrase is used to tell someone to stop what they’re doing or to give some space. It can be used in various situations to indicate the need to slow down or back away from a situation.

For instance, if someone is being too aggressive in an argument, you might say, “Hey, back off, let’s calm down.”
If someone is standing too close to you, you could say, “Can you back off a bit? I need some personal space.”
In a discussion about work-life balance, someone might advise, “Sometimes, you just need to back off and take a break.”

8. Slow your roll

This phrase is used to tell someone to relax or to take it easy. It’s often used when someone is getting too worked up or moving too quickly.

For example, if someone is speaking too fast or getting too excited, you might say, “Hey, slow your roll, we have time.”
In a conversation about a stressful situation, someone might advise, “Take a deep breath and slow your roll.”
If someone is rushing through a task, you could say, “You need to slow your roll and double-check your work.”

9. Put the brakes on

This phrase is used to tell someone to stop what they’re doing or to slow down. It’s often used when someone is moving too quickly or making hasty decisions.

For instance, if someone is about to make a mistake, you might say, “Hold on, put the brakes on and think about it.”
In a discussion about a project timeline, someone might suggest, “We need to put the brakes on and reassess our deadlines.”
If someone is rushing through a meal, you could say, “Put the brakes on and enjoy your food.”

10. Take a breather

This phrase is used to tell someone to take a short break or pause. It’s often used when someone is feeling overwhelmed or needs to relax for a moment.

For example, if someone is working long hours, you might say, “Take a breather, you deserve a break.”
In a conversation about a difficult task, someone might suggest, “Let’s take a breather and come back to it with fresh eyes.”
If someone is feeling stressed, you could say, “Take a breather and do something you enjoy to relax.”

11. Ease off

This phrase is used to tell someone to relax or slow down. It is often used in situations where someone is being too intense or aggressive.

For example, if someone is driving too fast, you might say, “Hey, ease off on the gas pedal.”
In a work environment, a supervisor might advise an employee, “You’ve been working non-stop. You need to ease off and take a break.”
A friend might say, “You’ve been stressing out about the party. Just ease off and let things flow naturally.”

12. Wind it down

This phrase is used to suggest that someone should gradually slow down or bring an activity to an end. It implies a process of gradually reducing intensity or activity.

For instance, if a party is coming to an end, someone might say, “Let’s wind it down and start cleaning up.”
In a conversation about a busy day, someone might say, “I need to wind it down and relax with a good book.”
A fitness instructor might encourage their class, “We’ve been working hard. Let’s wind it down with some stretching exercises.”

13. Settle down

This phrase is used to tell someone to calm down or relax. It can be used in situations where someone is agitated, excited, or overly energetic.

For example, if a child is being rowdy, a parent might say, “Settle down and behave.”
In a heated argument, someone might say, “Let’s settle down and have a rational discussion.”
A friend might say, “You’re getting too worked up. Just settle down and take a deep breath.”

14. Loosen up

This phrase is used to tell someone to relax or become less tense. It can be used in situations where someone is being too serious, stressed, or uptight.

For instance, if someone is being overly cautious, you might say, “Loosen up and have some fun.”
In a social gathering, a friend might say, “You seem tense. Loosen up and enjoy yourself.”
A coach might encourage their team, “Don’t be so rigid. Loosen up and play with more creativity.”

15. Dial it back

This phrase is used to suggest that someone should reduce the intensity or level of something. It can be used in situations where someone is being too aggressive, loud, or extreme.

For example, if someone is speaking too loudly, you might say, “Dial it back a bit.”
In a discussion where emotions are running high, someone might say, “Let’s dial it back and approach this calmly.”
A teacher might advise a student, “You’re putting too much pressure on yourself. Dial it back and take things one step at a time.”

16. Take a chill pill

This phrase is used to tell someone to calm down or take it easy. It implies that the person needs to stop being so stressed or worked up.

For example, if someone is getting angry or upset, you might say, “Hey, take a chill pill, everything will be fine.”
In a tense situation, someone might say, “Let’s all just take a chill pill and try to find a solution.”
If someone is overreacting to a minor issue, you could say, “You need to take a chill pill, it’s not a big deal.”

17. Mellow out

To “mellow out” means to relax or become less agitated. It suggests that the person needs to reduce their stress levels or emotional intensity.

For instance, if someone is getting too worked up, you might say, “Hey, you need to mellow out and take a deep breath.”
In a high-pressure situation, someone might say, “We all need to mellow out and think clearly.”
If someone is being overly intense or aggressive, you could say, “Dude, you seriously need to mellow out.”

18. Go easy

This phrase is used to tell someone to slow down or take things at a more relaxed pace. It implies that the person is being too fast or intense.

For example, if someone is rushing through a task, you might say, “Hey, go easy, there’s no need to rush.”
In a competitive situation, someone might say, “Let’s all go easy on each other and have fun.”
If someone is being too demanding or expecting too much, you could say, “You need to go easy and give people some space.”

19. Hit the brakes

To “hit the brakes” means to suddenly slow down or stop. It is often used metaphorically to tell someone to reduce their speed or intensity.

For instance, if someone is talking too fast, you might say, “Whoa, hit the brakes, I can’t keep up.”
In a heated argument, someone might say, “We need to hit the brakes and calm down before we say something we regret.”
If someone is rushing through a project without considering the details, you could say, “You need to hit the brakes and take your time.”

20. Hold up

The phrase “hold up” is used to tell someone to wait or pause for a moment. It implies that the person needs to slow down or stop what they are doing.

For example, if someone is moving too quickly, you might say, “Hold up, let’s think this through.”
In a conversation, someone might say, “Hold up, I need to clarify something before we continue.”
If someone is rushing ahead without considering the consequences, you could say, “Hold up, we need to consider all the possible outcomes.”

21. Relax your grip

This phrase is often used metaphorically to mean “let go” or “take it easy.” It suggests that you should release your tight grip on something, whether it be a physical object or a situation, in order to reduce stress or tension.

For example, a friend might say, “You’re stressing out too much about that project. Relax your grip and take a break.”
In a sports context, a coach might advise, “If you want to improve your swing, relax your grip on the club.”
A therapist might tell a client, “To reduce anxiety, try to relax your grip on things you can’t control.”

22. Take a load off

This phrase is often used to suggest that someone should take a break, sit down, and relax. It implies that they are carrying a heavy burden or feeling overwhelmed, and encourages them to take a moment to relieve their stress or fatigue.

For instance, after a long day at work, someone might say, “I can’t wait to get home and take a load off.”
If a friend looks tired, you might say, “Why don’t you take a load off and sit down for a bit?”
In a busy restaurant, a server might say, “Please have a seat and take a load off. I’ll be right with you.”

23. Slow your pace

This phrase is often used to suggest that someone should decrease their speed or rate of activity. It can be applied to physical movements, work pace, or even the pace of one’s thoughts.

For example, if someone is walking too fast, you might say, “Hey, slow your pace. I can’t keep up.”
In a work setting, a supervisor might advise, “You’re rushing through your tasks. Slow your pace and focus on quality.”
If someone is speaking too quickly, you might say, “Can you please slow your pace? I’m having trouble following you.”

24. Easy does it

This phrase is often used to advise someone to proceed slowly and carefully in a situation. It suggests that rushing or being too forceful may lead to negative consequences, and encourages a more cautious approach.

For instance, if someone is carrying a fragile object, you might say, “Easy does it. Be careful not to drop it.”
In a physical activity, a coach might say, “When you’re learning a new move, take it slow. Easy does it.”
If someone is getting too worked up, you might say, “Take a deep breath and remember, easy does it.”

25. Wind down

This phrase is often used to describe the process of gradually slowing down and preparing for rest or relaxation. It suggests that someone should transition from a state of high activity or stress to a more calm and peaceful state.

For example, after a long day, someone might say, “I’m going to take a hot bath and wind down.”
In a fitness context, a trainer might recommend, “After an intense workout, make sure to properly stretch and wind down.”
If someone is feeling anxious, you might suggest, “Try some deep breathing exercises to help you wind down.”

26. Unwind

To unwind means to relax and destress, often after a period of work or activity. It refers to taking a break and allowing oneself to relax and let go of tension.

For example, “After a long day at work, I like to unwind by taking a hot bath.”
Someone might say, “I need to unwind this weekend and do something fun.”
A person might suggest, “Let’s go to the beach and unwind for a few hours.”

27. Lay off

To lay off means to take a break or stop doing something, especially when it becomes too much or overwhelming. It can also refer to refraining from criticizing or bothering someone.

For instance, “I need to lay off work for a bit and relax.”
Someone might say, “You should lay off the junk food and eat something healthier.”
A person might advise, “Lay off him, he’s had a rough day.”

28. Relax

To relax means to rest and unwind, often in order to reduce stress or tension. It refers to taking time for oneself and engaging in activities that promote a sense of calmness and tranquility.

For example, “I like to relax by reading a book or listening to music.”
Someone might say, “I need to relax and clear my mind.”
A person might suggest, “Let’s go to the spa and relax with a massage.”

29. Decompress

To decompress means to release stress and tension, often through activities or techniques that promote relaxation and emotional well-being. It refers to relieving the pressure or strain that has built up.

For instance, “After a long day, I like to decompress by practicing yoga.”
Someone might say, “I need to decompress and let go of all the stress.”
A person might recommend, “Take a walk in nature to decompress and clear your mind.”

30. Take five

To take five means to take a short break, typically for five minutes. It is a colloquial expression often used in a work or performance setting to indicate a brief pause or intermission.

For example, “Let’s take five and grab a cup of coffee.”
Someone might say, “I need to take five and stretch my legs.”
A person might suggest, “We’ve been working for hours, let’s take five and recharge.”

31. Take a step back

This phrase is used to encourage someone to pause and reassess a situation or their actions. It suggests taking a moment to gain perspective or consider alternative approaches.

For example, in a heated argument, one person might say, “Let’s take a step back and think about what we’re really trying to achieve here.”
In a work setting, a manager might advise their team, “When faced with a difficult problem, it’s important to take a step back and look at the bigger picture.”
A friend might offer support by saying, “If you’re feeling overwhelmed, maybe it’s time to take a step back and prioritize your own well-being.”

32. Take a pause

Similar to “take a step back,” this phrase suggests temporarily stopping or pausing an activity or conversation. It implies the need to slow down, collect one’s thoughts, or take a breather.

For instance, during a heated debate, someone might say, “Let’s take a pause and calm down before we continue.”
In a fast-paced work environment, a colleague might suggest, “It’s been a busy day, why don’t we take a pause and grab a coffee.”
If someone is feeling overwhelmed, a therapist might recommend, “Taking a pause and practicing mindfulness can help reduce stress and anxiety.”

33. Take a break

This phrase is commonly used to encourage someone to stop what they are doing and rest for a while. It implies the need to slow down, recharge, and take care of oneself.

For example, after hours of studying, a student might say, “I need to take a break and clear my mind.”
In a busy workday, a coworker might suggest, “Let’s take a break and go for a walk to refresh our minds.”
If someone is feeling overwhelmed, a friend might say, “You’ve been working so hard, it’s important to take a break and do something you enjoy.”

34. Hold on a sec

This phrase is used to ask someone to pause or wait for a short period of time. It implies the need to slow down and give the speaker a moment to gather their thoughts or attend to something.

For instance, in a conversation, someone might say, “Hold on a sec, I just need to grab my phone.”
If someone is rushing to leave, a friend might ask, “Hold on a sec, I forgot to give you something.”
In a meeting, a participant might interject, “Hold on a sec, I have a question about the previous point.”

35. Take your foot off the gas

This phrase is a metaphorical expression that means to reduce speed or intensity. It suggests the need to slow down, relax, or decrease one’s effort or involvement in a situation.

For example, in a competitive game, a coach might say, “Take your foot off the gas and focus on maintaining possession.”
If someone is working long hours, a colleague might advise, “You need to take your foot off the gas and prioritize self-care.”
In a high-pressure situation, a mentor might remind their mentee, “Remember to take your foot off the gas and take breaks to avoid burnout.”