gradually
Meaning
"Gradually" refers to a process that occurs slowly and in small stages over time, rather than all at once.
💡 A common mistake is to confuse "gradually" with "gradual," which is an adjective; remember to use "gradually" to describe how something happens.
Example Sentences
Word in Context
When
Lina
moved
into
the
small
flat
near
the
river
,
the
unfamiliar
noises
at
night
made
her
lose
sleep
.
She
started
to
go
for
morning
walks
so
she
could
learn
the
streets
and
meet
people
from
the
neighborhood
.
At
first
the
routine
felt
difficult
,
but
she
gradually
noticed
that
the
city
seemed
friendlier
and
quieter
in
the
early
hours
.
Her
confidence
has
been
growing
because
she
has
spoken
to
shopkeepers
and
helped
a
neighbor
carry
groceries
.
Now
she
can
enjoy
a
peaceful
coffee
by
the
window
and
plan
the
rest
of
her
day
with
less
worry
.
Common Phrases
gradually improve
gradually increase
gradually change
Related Words
Never forget "gradually"
Set a daily goal, reinforce with word cards and games, and track your progress in the Vocab5000 app — learn every B2 level word permanently with our science-based repetition system.