expanded gradually

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "expanded gradually" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a process or development that occurs slowly over time, often in a step-by-step manner. Example: "The project scope was expanded gradually to include additional features based on user feedback."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

Too much too soon: they should have built world of mouth and expanded gradually, because the movie deserves to gross at least $35m.

The Guardian - Film

The concert began with a jazz quartet, expanded gradually to a sextet (with the addition of the trombonist Curtis Fuller and the trumpeter Eddie Henderson), and then veered off in its second half into classical and big-band territory.

The New York Times - Arts

They are expected to start appearing in Toyota showrooms in California in June 2003, then be expanded gradually across the country with a goal of national distribution a year after that.

The New York Times

They bought the house for £10,250 in the early 70s and expanded gradually as their four children came along (all now strapping young adults aged 18 to 24), knocking through into the cottage next door, buying a field off a neighbouring farmer.

The Guardian

Nor is it quite the miniature it once was: capacity has expanded gradually over the past few years, from the 5,000 of its first year, 2006, to around 14,000 now, and the focus isn't quite so tightly upon bearded Americans singing about death as it once was.

The Guardian - Music

Given the significant segment of the population that Seguro Popular aimed to cover, the program was expanded gradually throughout Mexico.

Latin American Economic Review

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

29 human-written examples

It plans to expand gradually through grade five.

The New York Times

Under the pact, they would be allowed to expand gradually to other cities.

The New York Times

Instead of trying to conquer the world, for now FreshDirect limits service to Manhattan (with plans to expand gradually into other boroughs and the New York suburbs).

The New York Times - Tech

Helman said she plans to expand gradually.

TechCrunch

These cysts expand gradually, leading to progressive orbital symptoms.

Ophthalmology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a project rollout or market entry strategy, use "expanded gradually" to convey a measured and controlled approach, minimizing risks associated with rapid scaling.

Common error

While "expanded gradually" effectively communicates a slow, controlled growth, avoid it when describing situations demanding quick scaling. Opt for phrases like "rapidly expanded" or "scaled quickly" to accurately reflect the intended pace.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "expanded gradually" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to describe the manner in which an action (expansion) occurs. It indicates that the expansion happens slowly and steadily over time. Ludwig's examples confirm its role in depicting processes of incremental growth.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

36%

News & Media

32%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "expanded gradually" functions as an adverbial phrase used to describe a process of slow and steady growth over time. Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase is grammatically correct and appropriate for various contexts, ranging from news and media to scientific publications. While it is a common phrase, writers should be mindful of conveying an intentional, controlled pace, and should use synonyms like "increased incrementally" or "developed steadily" depending on the desired emphasis. The frequency analysis indicates its prevalence in scientific and news contexts. Therefore, "expanded gradually" serves as a versatile tool for describing measured growth in diverse scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

increased incrementally

Focuses on the step-by-step nature of the increase.

grew progressively

Highlights continuous development and advancement.

developed steadily

Emphasizes the consistent and stable manner of development.

extended bit by bit

Suggests a slow and measured expansion.

enlarged by degrees

Implies a gradual and measurable increase in size or scope.

built up over time

Highlights the accumulation and development over a period.

unfolded in stages

Emphasizes the phased nature of the expansion or development.

progressed in phases

Similar to "unfolded in stages", focusing on distinct periods of advancement.

advanced little by little

Indicates a slow and incremental advancement.

evolved step by step

Focuses on the gradual evolution and progression through defined steps.

FAQs

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

You can use "expanded gradually" to describe something that increases in size, scope, or extent over time. For example, "The company "expanded gradually" into new markets."

What are some alternatives to "expanded gradually"?

Alternatives include "increased incrementally", "grew progressively", or "developed steadily". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is there a difference between "expanded gradually" and "expanded rapidly"?

Yes, "expanded gradually" implies a slow and controlled growth, while "expanded rapidly" suggests a fast and accelerated growth. The choice depends on the speed at which something increased in size or scope.

Which is more appropriate: "expanded gradually" or "expanded immediately"?

It depends on the context. Use "expanded gradually" when describing a slow, staged process. Conversely, use "expanded immediately" when describing something that grew or was extended without delay. Example: "The service "expanded immediately" after the update."