gradual increase

USAGE SUMMARY

"gradual increase" is a valid and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to describe a change in values that happens over time, such as a stock market trend or a gradual decrease in temperature. For example: "The stock market has seen a gradual increase this quarter."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"We've just seen a gradual increase".

The New York Times

"We're still planning for a gradual increase in M.&A.

The New York Times

Life expectancy, however, has been showing a gradual increase.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The rock itself gives the integrated, more gradual increase.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"In the last decade we've seen a gradual increase in children under 12," she said.

The New York Times

This results in a gradual increase in distance that can be covered before any pain occurs.

The New York Times - Health

For Alexander, the gradual increase in size is evidence of a cultural shift.

The Guardian - Books

We've seen a gradual increase over the summer, and we've seen a bigger increase this week".

The New York Times

Done well, the only clue that the bird is approaching is the gradual increase in its size.

The Guardian

Critics of congressional interference are bothered by a gradual increase of the congressional involvement in the tactical execution of policy.

The New Yorker

She asked: "Will wages and domestic costs continue their gradual increase towards levels consistent with the 2% inflation target?

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a "gradual increase", specify the timeframe over which the increase occurs to provide context and clarity. For example, "a gradual increase in sales over the past quarter".

Common error

Avoid using "gradual increase" when the increase is actually rapid or sudden. "Gradual" implies a slow and steady change over time. If the change is quick, consider using terms like "rapid growth" or "sudden surge".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "gradual increase" functions primarily as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject, object, or complement in a sentence. Ludwig's examples demonstrate its versatile application across diverse contexts. As Ludwig AI points out, it is a valid and usable phrase in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

40%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Wiki

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "gradual increase" is a commonly used and grammatically correct noun phrase that describes a slow and steady rise over time. According to Ludwig, it is found across various contexts, particularly in news, science, and encyclopedias. It is important to use this phrase accurately, ensuring the increase is indeed gradual and not rapid. Alternatives like "steady increase" or "incremental increase" may be suitable depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Remember to provide context by specifying the timeframe of the increase. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is perfectly acceptable and valid in written English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

incremental increase

Uses "incremental" to emphasize the step-by-step nature of the increase.

steady increase

Highlights the consistent and unwavering nature of the increase.

progressive growth

Focuses on the development aspect of the increase.

stepwise progression

Emphasizes the distinct steps in the increasing process.

phased escalation

Suggests a planned and controlled increase.

continuous climb

Implies an ongoing and sustained upward movement.

mild upturn

Indicates a slight and gentle increase.

creeping augmentation

Suggests a slow and almost imperceptible increase.

orderly expansion

Highlights the systematic and organized aspect of the increase.

measured amplification

Implies a careful and controlled increase.

FAQs

How can I use "gradual increase" in a sentence?

You can use "gradual increase" to describe a slow and steady rise in something. For example, "There has been a "gradual increase" in the price of gasoline over the past few months".

What are some synonyms for "gradual increase"?

Alternatives to "gradual increase" include "steady increase", "incremental increase", and "progressive growth". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to say "gradual increase" or "steady increase"?

Both "gradual increase" and "steady increase" are correct and often interchangeable. "Gradual" emphasizes the slow pace, while "steady" emphasizes the consistency of the rise.

What's the difference between "gradual increase" and "exponential growth"?

"Gradual increase" describes a slow and steady rise, while "exponential growth" describes a rapid and accelerating rise. They represent different patterns of change.