gradually
Definition
Adverb: - In a gradual manner; by small degrees or little by little: This describes something happening slowly, in stages, or over a period of time, rather than suddenly or all at once.
Usage
The adverb "gradually" is used to modify verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs to indicate that the action or change occurs slowly and progressively. It is typically placed before the main verb it modifies or at the beginning or end of a clause for emphasis.
Examples
- The sky gradually changed from blue to orange as the sun set.
- She is gradually improving her language skills through daily practice.
- The old traditions are gradually disappearing.
- Gradually, he began to understand the complex problem.
Advanced Usage
- "to do something gradually": To perform an action in a slow, incremental way.
- To avoid injury, you should increase your running distance gradually.
- Used to describe a process of becoming: "gradually" + adjective (e.g., become gradually clearer, grow gradually darker).
- As the fog lifted, the coastline became gradually clearer.
Variants and Related Words
- Gradual (adjective): Happening or changing slowly over a period of time.
- We observed a gradual increase in temperature.
- Gradualness (noun): The quality or state of being gradual. (This is a less common noun form).
Synonyms
- Slowly: At a slow speed; not quickly.
- Progressively: In a way that happens or develops gradually over a period of time.
- Step by step: Proceeding from one stage to the next in a logical sequence.
- Little by little: Slowly and in small stages or amounts.
Antonyms
- Suddenly: Quickly and unexpectedly.
- Abruptly: Suddenly and without warning.
- All at once: Everything happening simultaneously.
Related Phrases and Idioms
- Bit by bit: Synonym for gradually, emphasizing small increments.
- He saved money bit by bit until he could buy the car.
- By degrees: Gradually; in stages.
- His health improved by degrees after the surgery.
Adverb
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in a gradual manner
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the snake moved gradually toward its victim
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