climbed gradually

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "climbed gradually" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a slow and steady increase in height, level, or intensity over time. Example: "The hikers climbed gradually up the mountain, taking breaks to enjoy the scenery along the way."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

The path climbed — gradually, endlessly — uphill.

The New York Times - Travel

From three regions in 1960, the number of states has climbed gradually to its current number of 36.

The New York Times

The monthly Medicare premium started at $3 in 1966, climbed gradually to $7.20 in 1976, was still under $25 in 1988 and reached $50 in 2001.

The New York Times

Wall Street had little obvious reaction to Mr. Bernanke's speech, though stock prices climbed gradually throughout the day, apparently on expectations that the central bank would lower the overnight federal funds rate at least one-quarter of a percentage point, to 5percentt, at its meeting next week.

The New York Times

The trail climbed gradually through verdant bamboo and broadleaf woods toward a ridge where a hazy panorama revealed forest-clad mountains above and below us, the blur of Repulse Bay to the west, and to the east, the jade water of Tai Tam Reservoir.

The New York Times - Travel

Tight bowling pegged them back so that the run rate climbed gradually and by the time, through the captain Michael Clarke and wicketkeeper Matthew Wade, they had worked their way into a position to contemplate a charge for the line, Tim Bresnan was starting to reverse swing the ball from the Nursery End.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

The contribution limit will rise $500 in 2002, to $11,000, and will climb gradually to $15,000 for 2006.

The New York Times

This then follows the rim of Salisbury Crags, granting an invigorating and exhilarating walk, climbing gradually to reach the top.

The Guardian - Travel

The parkway will climb gradually from the French Broad River to its highest elevation, 6,047 feet, in the Nantahala National Forest.

The New York Times - Travel

The rise in wages has been even faster in dollar terms, because the renminbi's value has been climbing gradually in currency markets.

The New York Times

The three-week trek starts in lowland farming country at Besi Sahar and climbs gradually to the formidable pass of Thorung La at nearly 5,500 metres.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing changes over time, ensure that the gradual increase is relevant to the overall context. For instance, saying "the company's profits climbed gradually" implies sustainable growth, while a sudden spike might indicate a temporary surge.

Common error

Avoid using "climbed gradually" when describing a rapid or sudden ascent. This phrase specifically indicates a slow, steady, and continuous upward movement or increase. Use alternatives like "skyrocketed" or "surged" when speed is a factor.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "climbed gradually" is to act as a verb phrase, modifying a subject by describing how it moved or increased over time. Ludwig AI confirms its use in describing processes that unfold at a measured pace.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "climbed gradually" is a grammatically correct and usable verb phrase to describe slow and consistent increases over time. While Ludwig AI confirms its validity, it's essential to consider the specific context to avoid misrepresenting the pace of change. This phrase is most commonly found in news and scientific writing and has a neutral tone. When choosing alternatives, options like "rose steadily" or "ascended incrementally" can provide similar but nuanced meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ascended incrementally

Emphasizes the step-by-step nature of the ascent, highlighting each individual stage of the climb.

ascended slowly

Emphasizes the lack of speed in the upward movement.

rose steadily

Focuses on a continuous and unwavering upward movement, implying reliability and consistency.

increased slowly

Highlights the lack of rapid change, emphasizing a deliberate and unhurried progression.

moved upward gradually

A more descriptive alternative emphasizing both direction and pace of the movement.

progressed steadily

Focuses on forward movement and development, rather than necessarily upward movement, but implies a consistent advance.

advanced incrementally

Stresses the small, measured steps taken in making progress.

grew steadily

Suggests a natural and consistent increase, often used for abstract concepts like influence or value.

developed slowly

Implies a gradual unfolding or evolution over time, rather than a direct physical ascent.

edged upward

Suggests a hesitant or cautious climb, with small and uncertain movements.

FAQs

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

You can use "climbed gradually" to describe a slow and steady increase over time, such as "The stock price "climbed gradually" throughout the year" or "The path "climbed gradually" up the hillside".

What are some alternatives to "climbed gradually"?

Some alternatives to "climbed gradually" include "rose steadily", "increased slowly", or "ascended incrementally", depending on the specific context.

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

While both phrases are grammatically correct, "climbed gradually" is more conventional. "Gradually climbed" may sound slightly less natural, but it is still understandable and acceptable. Consider the flow and rhythm of your sentence when choosing between the two.

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

"Climbed gradually" indicates a slow, steady increase, while "climbed rapidly" suggests a quick and sudden ascent. The choice depends on the specific rate of increase you wish to convey.