B2adverb 1K

Gradually

🇬🇧 UK /["/ˈɡrædʒuəli/"]/ 🇺🇸 US /["/ˈɡrædʒuəli/"]/

Meaning of Gradually

slowly, over a long period of time

In simple words: slowly over time

Gradually in a sentence

• to **gradually increase/decrease**
• The weather gradually improved.
• Gradually, the children began to understand.
• She was **gradually becoming** conscious of aches and pains caused by the long, tiring flight.

How to use Gradually

Use 'gradually' when describing changes that happen slowly. It's appropriate in both spoken and written English but may sound too formal in casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

gradually + verb

Memory hint

Think of 'gradual' as 'gradually getting better' like climbing a staircase one step at a time.

Related words

Collocations with Gradually

• gradually improve
• gradually increase
• gradually change
• gradually develop

Synonyms for Gradually

• slowly
• progressively
• steadily
• incrementally
• bit by bit

Opposites of Gradually

• suddenly
• abruptly

Common mistakes with Gradually

• Using 'gradually' with a noun instead of a verb.
• Confusing 'gradually' with 'suddenly', which means quickly.
• Incorrect placement in a sentence, such as 'gradually I will go' instead of 'I will gradually go.'

Frequently asked questions about Gradually

What does Gradually mean?

slowly over time

What is the definition of Gradually?

slowly, over a long period of time

How do you use Gradually in a sentence?

to **gradually increase/decrease**

Can you give another example of Gradually?

The weather gradually improved.

What are synonyms for Gradually?

Common alternatives include slowly, progressively, steadily, incrementally, bit by bit.

What is the opposite of Gradually?

Opposite meanings include suddenly, abruptly.

What words go with Gradually?

It commonly pairs with gradually improve, gradually increase, gradually change, gradually develop.

What are common mistakes when using Gradually?

Using 'gradually' with a noun instead of a verb. Confusing 'gradually' with 'suddenly', which means quickly. Incorrect placement in a sentence, such as 'gradually I will go' instead of 'I will gradually go.'

How do you pronounce Gradually?

US: /["/ˈɡrædʒuəli/"]/, UK: /["/ˈɡrædʒuəli/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Gradually?

Use 'gradually' when describing changes that happen slowly. It's appropriate in both spoken and written English but may sound too formal in casual conversations.

What CEFR level is Gradually?

"Gradually" is at B2 level on the CEFR scale.