Definitions

gradually

[graj-oo-uh-lee] / ˈgrædʒ u ə li /

ADVERB

happening slowly, evenly

Synonyms

STRONGEST

constantly continuously deliberately gently increasingly moderately progressively regularly steadily

WEAK

bit by bit by degrees by installments imperceptibly in small doses inch by inch little by little perceptibly piece by piece piecemeal sequentially serially step by step successively unhurriedly

Antonyms

WEAK

abruptly fastly intermittently suddenly

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.

Gradually, custom chips from the likes of Google—made in collaboration with Broadcom—began to make inroads.

From Barron's • Apr. 17, 2026

Gradually he realizes he’s been sent on a mission to figure out why the sun is dimming and how to stop it.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 19, 2026

Gradually, he has learned more about what happened the day of the attacks.

From BBC • Feb. 21, 2026

Gradually, China’s supply chain is becoming less resilient.

From MarketWatch • Jan. 5, 2026

Gradually, he forced himself to walk over to the two of them.

From "Half Upon a Time" by James Riley

gradually

Example Sentences

Related Words