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adjective

evolutionary

ee-vuh-LOO-shuhn-ree
adjective
1
Relating to biological evolution or the theory of evolution.
"Scientists study the evolutionary history of whales."
2
Involving gradual development rather than sudden, dramatic change.
"The company took an evolutionary approach to updating its product, making small changes over years."

How to Use Evolutionary

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishHaving to do with evolution, or happening gradually step by step.

Common mistake

Often contrasted with "revolutionary" (sudden and dramatic) — evolutionary change is slow and incremental.

Easily confused with
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Scientists study the _____ history of whales.

Etymology

From evolution + -ary.

Rhymes for evolutionary

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