But gradually

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "But gradually" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate a slow or incremental change over time in a narrative or explanation. Example: "The project was initially met with resistance, but gradually, the team began to see the benefits of the new approach."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

But gradually things changed.

The Economist

But gradually, he relented.

Independent

But gradually that civility eroded.

The New Yorker

But gradually things change.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

But gradually, people started to interact.

The New York Times - Science

But gradually his love became more possessive.

The New Yorker

But gradually an overall impression becomes dominant.

The New York Times - Arts

But gradually, new layers develop.

The Guardian - Books

But gradually things took off.

The Guardian

But gradually a downside emerges.

The Guardian - Film

But gradually they are returning.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "But gradually" to introduce a shift or change that occurs over a period of time, especially when contrasting it with a previous state or situation. It effectively signals a transition in your narrative or explanation.

Common error

Avoid starting multiple consecutive sentences with "But gradually". This can make your writing sound repetitive. Instead, vary your sentence structure by using alternative transitional phrases or rephrasing to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "But gradually" functions as a transitional phrase, primarily used to introduce a contrast or shift that develops over time. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "But gradually" is a versatile phrase used to signal a progressive shift or change over time. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically sound and widely accepted in English writing. It functions as a transitional phrase, predominantly found in news and media contexts. While suitable for both formal and informal use, it's important to avoid overuse and vary sentence structure for engaging content. The phrase's consistent presence in reputable sources, like The New York Times and The Guardian, underscores its reliability and widespread usage. Remember, it's your go-to phrase for indicating change that happens bit by bit.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

However, little by little

This alternative specifically emphasizes the incremental nature of the change.

However, over time

This alternative emphasizes the passage of time as the key factor in the change.

Nonetheless, as things progressed

This highlights a sense of development and advancement.

Nevertheless, with time

This highlights that despite an initial situation, the passage of time brings about a change.

Despite that, as it evolved

This shows the gradual development or unfolding of something over time.

Yet, in due course

This suggests that something will happen at the appropriate time, implying a natural progression.

All the same, eventually

This suggests something happens after some delay or difficulty.

Still, as time passes

This emphasizes the continuous nature of time's influence on the situation.

Be that as it may, in time

This indicates that something will occur given sufficient time.

Even so, in the long run

This focuses on the ultimate outcome after a period of time.

FAQs

How can I use "But gradually" in a sentence?

You can use "But gradually" to show a shift or change happening over time. For example, "The resistance was strong at first, but gradually, people began to accept the new policies."

What are some alternatives to "But gradually"?

Alternatives include "however, over time", "eventually", or "little by little". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is there a difference between "But gradually" and "Eventually"?

"But gradually" emphasizes a process occurring bit by bit, while "eventually" simply means at some later time. "But gradually" implies a more measured and progressive change.

Can "But gradually" be used in formal writing?

Yes, "But gradually" is suitable for both formal and informal writing. However, in very formal contexts, you might consider alternatives like "nevertheless, with time" or "nonetheless, as things progressed" for a slightly more elevated tone.