gradual
GRAD-joo-uhl
/ˈɡrædʒuəl/
Taking place or progressing slowly or by degrees.
Neutral or positive; implies a steady, consistent process without sudden jumps.
The story behind the word. From the Latin 'gradus', meaning 'step'. It’s the same root that gives us 'grade' and 'graduation'. It describes movement that happens one step at a time.
Word relationships
- step-by-step: Step-by-step is more informal; gradual is the standard academic term.
- sudden: Sudden implies an abrupt change; gradual implies a smooth one.
Commonly confused with
- slow: Slow is just speed; gradual implies a sequence of small steps.
Word family
- gradually (adverb): Slowly over time.
- graduation (noun): The completion of a step or stage.
Collocations
- gradual change
- gradual improvement
- gradual process
Example sentences
- "The gradual increase in global temperatures is a major concern for scientists." Climate change.
- "Learning a language is a gradual process that requires patience and practice." Learning.
Memory hook
Think of 'Grades' in school—you move through them one step at a time. Gradual = Step by step.
When not to use
Don't use it for things that are 'sluggish' (stuck); gradual things are still moving, just slowly.
Fun facts
- The word 'gradient' (a slope) also comes from this root.
Explore more words
Take your vocabulary further with LangBlitz
Our English vocabulary app: FSRS spaced repetition, 5,000+ curated words across 119 topic groups, CEFR A1 to C2. Explore your mastery with the beautiful Vocabulary World feature.