Words / B1

GRAJ-oo-uh-lee/ˈɡrædʒuəli/

Gradually means slowly, over a period of time. Prices rose gradually; she gradually improved. Suddenly is the opposite. Slowly can describe one action; gradually often describes a change. Gradual is the adjective: a gradual increase. Little by little is the informal phrase.

Meaning

Slowly, over a period of time.

Examples

• “He gradually became more confident.”
• “The pain gradually disappeared.”
• “We will gradually introduce the new system.”

Good to know

adverb of gradual. Opposite: suddenly. Informal: little by little.

Near in meaning

slowly

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