ENGLISH
REFERENCE

snail's pace

idiom
Meaning

A frustratingly slow rate of speed.

Origin

disputed origin

Due to the fact that snails move very slowly.

Examples
SIMPLE

The traffic is moving at a snail's pace today.

CONTEXTUAL

We waited for hours because the construction crew was working at a snail's pace.

COMPLEX

Despite the urgency of the situation, the bureaucratic process continued at a snail's pace, leaving everyone involved in a state of deep frustration.

Anchors to
Related idioms5entries
  1. 01

    change of pace

    A shift from one activity to another

  2. 02

    handbags at ten paces

    Synonym of handbags at dawn (“a catty squabble”).

  3. 03

    keep pace

    To run at the same speed as a pacesetter

  4. 04

    pick up the pace

    To begin moving or working faster.

  5. 05

    set the pace

    To establish a common goal by example.

Last updated July 12, 2026