adjective
gradual
GRAJOO-uhl
adjective
1
Happening slowly, in small steps, rather than suddenly.
"There was a gradual improvement in her health over several months."
"The company made a gradual shift toward remote work."
How to Use Gradual
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSlow and steady, happening bit by bit instead of all at once.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
gradual change
gradual improvement
gradual increase
Word Forms
more gradual comparative, graduals plural, most gradual superlative
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There was a _____ improvement in her health over several months.
Etymology
From Medieval Latin gradualis, from Latin gradus ("step"), the same root behind "grade" and "graduate."