Gradually escalating

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Gradually escalating" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or process that increases in intensity or severity over time. Example: "The conflict between the two countries has been gradually escalating, leading to increased tensions and concerns about a potential war."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

General Sharif has been gradually escalating what the army describes as "retaliatory strikes" in North Waziristan.

The Economist

The conflict, gradually escalating from a political impasse into full-scale hostilities, is quickly becoming intractable.

The Guardian - Opinion

But sometimes there are the voyeurs who try to touch the woman, and gradually escalating — then trouble would happen".

The New York Times

But Israeli officials express skepticism that any combination of new diplomatic openness and gradually escalating pressure will work.

The New York Times

Excluding foreplay, petting is usually very stereotyped, beginning with hugging and kissing and gradually escalating to stimulation of the breasts and genitalia.

Encyclopedia Britannica

For more than seven years, President Obama has adopted a policy of gradually escalating sanctions that the White House once called "strategic patience".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

Siddiqui gradually escalated his praise for violent militants.

The New Yorker

After the French defeat in 1954 and its withdrawal from Indochina, the US military gradually escalated its intervention in Vietnam.

The Guardian

The charges against her gradually escalated to working illegally without a press card and then spying for the United States.

The New York Times

In the Vietnam War, the United States gradually escalated the use of force and declared periodic pauses in its bombing campaign.

The New York Times

What began nearly a year ago as a conversation with Mr. Capellas about sharing technology, she said, gradually escalated into a merger deal.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a process or situation that increases in severity or intensity over time, use "gradually escalating" to convey a sense of measured progression rather than sudden change. This can help to manage expectations and emphasize the evolving nature of the situation.

Common error

Avoid using "gradually escalating" in contexts where a sudden, dramatic shift is more appropriate. Overusing the phrase can dilute the impact of truly sudden events. Consider alternatives like "suddenly surged" or "abruptly intensified" when describing such scenarios.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "gradually escalating" primarily functions as a verbal phrase modifying a noun, indicating that something is increasing in intensity or severity over time. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and suitable for describing increasing conditions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "gradually escalating" is a correct and versatile phrase that describes a process increasing in intensity over time, as supported by Ludwig AI. Its neutral tone makes it suitable for a variety of contexts, primarily appearing in news, scientific, and encyclopedia sources. While semantically similar phrases exist, such as "progressively increasing" or "steadily intensifying", "gradually escalating" carries its own specific nuance of measured progression. When using this phrase, ensure it aligns with the actual pace of change and avoid overuse in contexts requiring more dramatic language. The phrase is frequently used in authoritative sources like The New York Times and The Guardian.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Gradually intensifying

Synonymous, differing only slightly in emphasis. Both convey a process that gains strength over time.

Progressively increasing

This alternative highlights the steady, step-by-step nature of the increase, focusing on incremental advancement.

Steadily intensifying

This phrase emphasizes the growing strength or force of something, implying a continuous and unwavering rise.

Progressively amplifying

Indicates a step-by-step increase in magnitude or effect, similar to progressively increasing.

Continually rising

Focuses on the ongoing nature of the increase, without necessarily specifying the rate or intensity.

Incrementally augmenting

This alternative suggests small, additive increases, often used in technical or formal contexts.

Slowly building up

This phrase emphasizes the gradual accumulation of something, leading to a greater overall impact.

Systematically amplifying

This alternative indicates a deliberate and methodical increase, often used in scientific or engineering contexts.

Ratcheting up slowly

Implies a controlled, step-by-step increase, often used in the context of pressure or tension.

Step-by-step escalation

This version emphasizes that the rise happens in defined steps instead of continuously.

FAQs

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

You can use "gradually escalating" to describe situations that intensify over time, such as "The conflict between the two factions is "gradually escalating"" or "The company's marketing efforts are "gradually escalating" to reach a wider audience".

What are some alternatives to "gradually escalating"?

Alternatives to "gradually escalating" include "progressively increasing", "steadily intensifying", or "continually rising". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "things are gradually escalating"?

Yes, "things are gradually escalating" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase to describe a situation that is becoming more intense or severe over time.

What's the difference between "gradually escalating" and "rapidly escalating"?

"Gradually escalating" implies a slow and measured increase, while "rapidly escalating" suggests a much faster and more abrupt intensification. The choice depends on the actual pace of the change you're describing.