What does gradually mean?
Gradually is an adverb meaning slowly and by degrees, with an emphasis on change occurring in successive stages rather than suddenly. It is used for physical processes, such as a landscape changing with the seasons, and for personal or social developments, such as someone becoming more confident over time. The word can suggest steady progress, a gentle transition, or a change so subtle that it is not immediately apparent. Gradually is common in both formal and informal English and works with verbs such as increase, decrease, improve, change, and become. It can modify an adjective or describe the manner of an action: the water gradually cooled; her performance gradually improved. Because the word comes from the Latin gradus, meaning “step,” it is especially effective when the idea of taking one small step after another is important. Its neutral tone makes it useful in descriptions, analysis, and everyday narration.
adverbIn a way that proceeds slowly and by successive stages rather than all at once. It can describe a change that happens over time or a process that increases, decreases, or develops in small steps.
- In a way that proceeds slowly and by successive stages over time.
"The sea gradually warmed as spring advanced."
"The old wooden bridge gradually gave way to a modern concrete one."
"After several revisions, she gradually became more confident during the presentation."
From the Latin gradus, meaning "step," gradually turns the passage of time into a staircase.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of gradually
The word comes from Latin gradus, meaning “step,” through Medieval Latin gradualiter, meaning “step by step” or “by degrees.” It entered English during the Middle English period and was formed in the same Latin-derived family as gradual, grade, and degree. Its underlying image is movement from one step to the next, emphasizing an incremental process rather than a single abrupt change.
How gradually is actually used
Generally neutral in register, though it often suggests a change so gradual that it may go unnoticed. It can describe either an intentional process or an involuntary change.
Easily confused with gradually
Gradual is an adjective describing something that occurs by slow stages, while gradually is the adverb describing the way an action or change occurs.