builds gradually

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "builds gradually" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to describe a process or development that occurs slowly over time. An example would be: "The tension in the story builds gradually, leading to a dramatic climax." Alternative expressions include "develops slowly" and "increases steadily."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Arts & Music

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

The noise builds gradually.

The New Yorker

The symphony builds gradually, saving its most determined energy for the third and final movement.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Colour builds gradually, allowing for layering and more control over how pencilled the brow is.

Independent

Nordhaus calls this recommendation for a policy that builds gradually over a long period the "climate-policy ramp".

The New York Times - Magazine

Squalling Sonic Youth-style guitars collapse into Lewis's delicate depression anthem A Better Son/Daughter, which builds gradually back into a mesmerising musical maelstrom of feedback.

The Guardian - Music

The song builds, gradually, to the most important stanza, expanding and filling with screeching guitars and a contagious chorus of "na na na's".

The Guardian - Music

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

Mr. Scamardo said his anguish built gradually.

The New York Times

Other sections will be built gradually over the years.

The New York Times

The park would be built gradually, Mr. Hayes said.

The New York Times

Start with a run of less than two miles, then build gradually from there.

The New York Times

Both were also "built gradually, the right way, we like to think".

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Pair this phrase with sensory details in creative writing to illustrate a crescendo in sound or a shift in atmosphere.

Common error

Avoid using "builds gradually" with verbs or adjectives that imply suddenness or instant completion, such as 'The bomb builds gradually its explosion.' Instead, reserve it for processes that logically allow for a slow accumulation of intensity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "builds gradually" functions as a verb modified by an adverb of manner. It describes the internal progression of a subject as it undergoes a slow increase in size, intensity or complexity. According to Ludwig, this structure is highly effective in narrative and descriptive contexts to denote a steady crescendo.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

25%

Arts & Music

15%

Less common in

Informal Speech

3%

Social Media

1%

Legal Documents

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In conclusion, "builds gradually" is a versatile and sophisticated phrase used to articulate slow, steady development. Data from Ludwig shows that it is a favorite among critics and scientists alike for describing everything from the tension in a symphony to the accumulation of geological pressure. Its high frequency in reputable sources like The New York Times and The Guardian confirms its reliability as a standard English expression. When writing, remember that it emphasizes the journey of growth, making it ideal for contexts where the pace of change is as significant as the change itself. For a more physical sense of gathering, consider using "accumulates incrementally" as an alternative.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

increases steadily

Suggests a more mathematical or quantifiable rise in volume or amount.

develops incrementally

Emphasizes small, discrete steps in a logical sequence of growth.

accumulates slowly

Specific to the gathering of material, data or pressure over time.

intensifies bit by bit

Focuses on the rising strength or emotion of a situation rather than structural growth.

mounts progressively

Often used in contexts of tension, pressure or opposition.

evolves by degrees

Implies a qualitative change or transformation occurring at a slow pace.

rises by increments

Focuses on the specific measurable units of an upward movement.

grows over time

A more general and common way to describe natural or organic expansion.

amplifies over a long period

Used when the signal, sound or impact becomes stronger over a duration.

expands at a measured pace

Suggests a controlled and intentional rate of growth.

FAQs

How do I use "builds gradually" in a sentence?

You can use it to describe an increase in intensity, such as 'The suspense in the film "builds gradually" until the final scene' or 'The project's success "builds gradually" through consistent effort.'

What is the difference between "builds gradually" and "builds up gradually"?

Both are correct, but the addition of 'up' in "builds up gradually" often implies a sense of accumulation or reaching a peak, whereas "builds gradually" focuses purely on the slow nature of the progression itself.

What are some synonyms for "builds gradually"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "increases steadily", "develops slowly", or "accumulates incrementally".

Is "builds gradually" formal enough for academic writing?

Yes, it is frequently found in scientific journals and formal reports to describe data trends or developmental stages, as seen in examples verified by Ludwig.