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Synonyms

low-grade

American  
[loh-greyd] / ˈloʊˈgreɪd /

adjective

  1. of an inferior quality, worth, value, etc..

    The mine yields low-grade silver ore.

Etymology

Origin of low-grade

First recorded in 1875–80; low 1 + grade

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Long-lasting, low-grade inflammation is known to contribute to many conditions associated with aging, including heart disease, frailty, and cognitive decline.

From Science Daily • Feb. 26, 2026

But the terminally dissatisfied Carol would rather stew in her own low-grade depression and angst that forfeit her free will.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 24, 2025

This creates a constant, low-grade burn known as inflammaging—which can confuse the immune system, making it more likely to mistake the body’s cells for an invader.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 23, 2025

The company’s Brook Mine in Wyoming has low-grade ore, making the project, which doesn’t produce rare-earth materials yet, risky.

From Barron's • Nov. 19, 2025

He looked like a low-grade bookmaker dressed up for his daughter's wedding, and he was clearly very pleased with himself this evening.

From "Matilda" by Roald Dahl

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023

Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.