Gradual
/ˈɡrædʒuəl/
Definitions
Proceeding or changing by steps or degrees; not sudden or abrupt.
/ˈɡrædʒuəl/
Happening or changing slowly over a long period of time or in small stages.
The healing process was gradual, taking several weeks.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're learning to ride a bike. At first, you might need training wheels and a parent running beside you. Gradually, you'll build confidence and balance, taking away the help bit by bit until you can ride on your own. That's gradual!
👶 For kids: Happening little by little, not all at once.
More Examples
There was a gradual increase in the number of people attending the events.
We observed a gradual change in the weather patterns.
How It's Used
"The economy showed a gradual improvement."
"The temperature increase was gradual, spanning several decades."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Antonyms
From Latin *gradualis*, meaning 'stepwise,' 'by degrees,' derived from *gradus* ('step').
The word 'gradual' has been used in English since the 16th century, initially to describe things occurring or advancing by degrees or steps.
Memory tip
Think of a staircase – each step is a gradual increase.
Word Origin
"step"