change gradually

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "change gradually" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to any process or event that has transgressed slowly and steadily over time. For example, "The river's course changed gradually over the centuries, carving out the canyon walls."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Unwritten constitutions tend to change gradually, continually, and often imperceptibly, in response to changing needs.

Britannica

That's likely to change gradually.

The New York Times

Even the pageant has started to change, gradually.

The New York Times

Patterns of grouping and proximity change gradually as the amblypygids mature.

Cornell University

Hansen: Some things do change gradually because of the inertia system.

The Guardian

"But it is possible to bring change gradually and slowly, by keeping traditions, by keeping religion".

The New York Times

However, a species can change gradually during evolution and still be the same species.

The New York Times - Books

Change gradually leads to tipping points beyond which the old order seems incongruous.

The Guardian

The Swedish plan was to make the change gradually, by omitting leap days for 40 years.

Britannica

However, most buildings have a lifespan of several decades, during which climate can change gradually.

Sustainable Cities and Society

As the rapid growth of network attacking tools, patterns of network intrusion events change gradually.

Expert Systems with Applications

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "change gradually" to describe processes that unfold slowly and steadily, rather than abruptly. This adds nuance and precision to your writing.

Common error

Be mindful not to use "change gradually" when the context implies deliberate or forced alteration. It's best suited for natural developments or processes where change is inherent and progressive.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "change gradually" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to describe the manner in which an action or process unfolds. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

42%

News & Media

37%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "change gradually" is a versatile and commonly used adverbial phrase that describes a slow and steady transformation over time. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide applicability. It is most frequently found in scientific and news-related contexts, reflecting its utility in describing natural processes and societal shifts. When using "change gradually", consider the subtle implication of a natural, progressive change rather than a forced or abrupt alteration. For similar effect, consider alternatives such as "evolve slowly" or "develop incrementally" to refine your meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

evolve slowly

Focuses on the evolutionary aspect of change, emphasizing a natural and unhurried development.

develop incrementally

Highlights the step-by-step nature of the development process.

progress steadily

Emphasizes a consistent and unwavering advancement.

shift imperceptibly

Suggests a change so subtle it's difficult to notice.

transition smoothly

Highlights the ease and lack of disruption in the change process.

alter subtly

Focuses on the slight and understated nature of the alteration.

metamorphose by degrees

Emphasizes a transformation happening in stages or steps.

unfold in stages

Suggests a revealing or developing process that happens part by part.

mature over time

Focuses on the aspect of growth and gaining complexity with the passage of time.

advance in small steps

Highlights the slow accumulation of small advancements.

FAQs

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

You can use "change gradually" to describe how something transforms over time, for example: "The political landscape began to "change gradually" after the new legislation was enacted."

What are some alternatives to "change gradually"?

Alternatives to "change gradually" include "evolve slowly", "develop incrementally", or "progress steadily". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "gradually change" instead of "change gradually"?

While "gradually change" is also grammatically correct and understandable, "change gradually" often sounds more natural in English. The choice depends on the rhythm and emphasis you want in your sentence.

What's the difference between "change gradually" and "transform rapidly"?

"Change gradually" implies a slow, progressive alteration, whereas "transform rapidly" suggests a quick, often dramatic shift. The key difference lies in the speed and intensity of the change.