gradually

The word “gradually” means slowly, in small steps over time, rather than all at once. In plain terms, bit by bit, over time, rather than suddenly.

“Gradually” is pronounced GRAD-zhoo-uh-lee (/ˈɡɹæd͡ʒuəli/ in IPA).

Here is “gradually” used in a sentence: “The weather gradually improved as the week went on.”

Words with a similar meaning to “gradually” include sluggishly, step by step, bit by bit, by degrees, by inches and continually.

The opposite of “gradually” — its antonyms — are abruptly, suddenly and suddently.

“Gradually” is an adverb.

“Gradually” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.

"Gradually" means slowly and in small steps over time, while "suddenly" means quickly and without warning. They are opposites: a gradual change unfolds bit by bit, a sudden one happens all at once.

"Gradually" describes how something happens, slowly and in stages. "Eventually" describes when, meaning at some later point, regardless of speed. A change can happen gradually and reach its result eventually.

"Gradually" usually sits before the main verb ("prices gradually rose") or at the start of a sentence for emphasis ("Gradually, things improved"). It can also follow the verb, as in "the sky darkened gradually."

Both suggest a lack of speed, but "slowly" simply means at a low speed, while "gradually" stresses change happening in small steps or stages. Something can move slowly without changing, whereas "gradually" always implies progression.