Slow burn Meaning in English
expression
Definition
A 'slow burn' describes something that develops or builds up gradually over time, such as emotions, a story, or tension. It is also used for situations or movies where things start slowly but become intense later.
Usage & Nuances
Primarily informal and used in conversations about movies, TV, emotions, or situations that develop slowly. Common collocations: 'a slow burn romance', 'the movie is a slow burn', 'it was a slow burn anger'. Not literal fire—it's about gradual progression or buildup.
Example Sentences
The movie was a slow burn, but it got exciting at the end.
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Their friendship was a slow burn that grew stronger over years.
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His anger was a slow burn that finally exploded.
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I love a slow burn romance, where the couple falls in love gradually.
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The tension in the room was a slow burn before the big announcement.
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That show really is a slow burn—don’t expect fireworks in the first episode.
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