gradual - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
gradual Word Meanings
- happening slowly over time
- taking place in small steps
- not sudden or abrupt
gradual Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
gradual Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈgradʒʊəl/
US
/ˈɡrædʒuəl/
gradual Word Etymology
From Latin 'gradualis', meaning 'taking steps'. Historical origin: Latin → Old French → English. Imagine climbing a staircase slowly, where each gradual step leads you higher, emphasizing a slow but steady progress.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Gradual means happening slowly over time, or progressing in small steps rather than all at once. This concept describes changes that accumulate and are noticeable only with time. You might hear about gradual improvement in a skill, a gradual change in a trend, or a gradual rollout of a plan. The word comes from Latin gradualis, meaning taking steps, which evokes the image of climbing stairs one careful step at a time. In everyday English, gradual can modify nouns like progress, change, improvement, or rollout, signaling a steady, ongoing process rather than a sudden event.
Usage Reminders
- Remember: gradual is an adjective used before a noun (progress, change, rollout); use gradually as an adverb (progress gradually); avoid confusing with slow or sudden; pair with nouns to express steady change; compare with allmählich/paulatino in other languages for nuance.
Common Misconceptions
- Gradual = slow all the time; the pace can vary and still be gradual
- Gradual and gradually are interchangeable as adjectives
- Using gradual with a verb (e. g., 'to be gradual') is incorrect
- Assuming gradual only applies to big changes, not minor ones
- Confusing gradual with 'slow' in formal writing
Thinking Differences
In English, gradual often signals a steady, predictable pace and fits many contexts from progress to rollout; learners may overuse gradual or confuse it with gradually and with slower synonyms.
Learning Tips
- Compare gradual with gradual to emphasize pace (gradual progress) vs gradual rollout (a plan you implement gradually).
- Pair gradual with nouns like progress, change, or rollout to signal ongoing change.
- Remember gradual is an adjective; use gradually as an adverb.
- Practice by rewriting sentences to shift emphasis from speed to steadiness.
- Listen for native usage in news or talks to hear natural collocations.
- Create a mini timeline showing slow, steady steps to a goal.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'gradual'?
A.Fast
B.Sudden
C.Slow
D.Random
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'gradual' correctly?
A.He suddenly jumped out of bed.
B.The flowers bloomed gradually in the spring.
C.She quickly finished her homework.
D.The storm came out of nowhere.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is a synonym for 'gradual'?
A.Rapid
B.Graduated
C.Immediate
D.Steady
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is an antonym for 'gradual'?
A.Modern
B.Abrupt
C.Partial
D.Reliable
Step 5: Mastery
How does the concept of 'gradual' apply in a marathon race?
A.The runners were provided with sudden breaks.
B.The runners sprinted at the beginning and finished quickly.
C.The runners randomly stopped during the race.
D.The runners started fast but slowed down gradually.
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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