gradual

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

That doesn’t necessarily require slashing benefits, but it could involve gradual changes—adjusting eligibility ages, modifying benefit formulas, or finding ways to control healthcare costs.

From Barron's • Mar. 31, 2026

The condition is initially very gradual so for the next few years, Sophia, who is an only child, was still very much herself.

From BBC • Mar. 31, 2026

The CEOs of McDonald’s or Walmart know an energy crunch will raise their costs and pinch their customers, but the effects are gradual and hard for them to quantify.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 27, 2026

“The housing market continues to show gradual improvements compared to a year ago amid recent rate volatility,” said Sam Khater, Freddie Mac’s chief economist.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 26, 2026

I had wanted to tell her about the afternoon I spent flying down the stair rails at home, never noticing the gradual shredding of my breeches.

From "Ella Enchanted" by Gail Carson Levine