gradual rates

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "gradual rates" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing changes or increases that occur slowly over time, often in contexts like economics, finance, or environmental changes. Example: "The gradual rates of temperature increase over the past century have raised concerns among climate scientists."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Gradual rates of mountain building, erosion of mountains, and the motions of tectonic plates imply hundreds of millions of years of change.

Evolution: Education and Outreach

The dorsal medulla presented by far the lowest MDI value (0.01) suggesting very gradual rates of divergence.

BMC Evolutionary Biology

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

The lower-than-expected inflation rate has allowed the regulator to move with the gradual rate reductions.

The New York Times

Until recently, it had seemed fairly certain that the central bank would continue its pattern of gradual rate increases.

The New York Times

Typically after a recession, the jobless rate keeps increasing for a few months, but at a more gradual rate.

The Washington Post

"It is possible that, if events turn out very differently, a path of gradual rate rises might have to be reversed somewhat," Weale wrote.

The Guardian - Business

She said in a speech on Monday that she still expected gradual rate rises but hinted they were not imminent, given Friday's poor US jobs figures.

The Guardian - Business

The land, enormously compressed by the vast accumulation of glacial ice on it, has since been rebounding (rising up) at an extremely gradual rate.

Britannica

The Senate measure would also seek to phase out the program's expansion — although at a more gradual rate than the House version.

The Washington Post

It is tougher to pin down climate change's potential impacts, given the gradual rate of change and the slow reproductive systems of plants.

The Washington Post

Fast growth has brought inflation pressures, which the region's central banks are seeking to combat with their gradual rate increases.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "gradual rates", ensure the context clearly defines what is being measured (e.g., growth, decline, change). This avoids ambiguity and strengthens your writing.

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the consequences of changes described by "gradual rates". Maintain a balanced perspective, acknowledging the slow pace and its potential limited short-term effects.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "gradual rates" functions as a noun phrase, typically used to describe the speed or pace at which something increases or decreases over a period. Ludwig AI confirms this by providing examples where the phrase describes the rate of change in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "gradual rates" is a noun phrase used to describe a slow and steady pace of change. Ludwig AI validates the phrase's correctness and usability in written English. While its frequency is rare, the phrase is most commonly found in scientific and news contexts. When using "gradual rates", clarity is key to ensure the reader understands the specific measurement. Alternatives like "slow pace" or "steady tempo" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

gradual escalation

Specifically refers to a slow and steady increase in intensity or magnitude.

slow pace

Changes the focus from rate to pace, implying a less specific measurement.

steady tempo

Emphasizes consistency and rhythm in the change.

incremental steps

Highlights the small, progressive nature of the changes.

moderate speed

Focuses on the velocity of change, suggesting it's neither fast nor slow.

measured progression

Implies a careful and deliberate advancement.

gentle increase

Highlights the mild and non-abrupt nature of the growth.

progressive development

Focuses on the evolution and advancement occurring over time.

phased implementation

Suggests a planned and gradual roll-out or introduction.

step-by-step approach

Highlights the methodical and sequential nature of the changes.

FAQs

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

You can use "gradual rates" to describe a slow and steady change over time, such as "The "gradual rates of economic growth"" or "gradual rates of decline in population density".

What are some alternatives to "gradual rates"?

Some alternatives include "slow pace", "steady tempo", or "incremental steps", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it more appropriate to say "gradual rates" or "rapid rates" in scientific writing?

The choice depends on the actual phenomenon you're describing. If the changes occur slowly over time, "gradual rates" is appropriate. If the changes are fast, "rapid rates" is more suitable.

What's the difference between "gradual rates" and "progressive rates"?

"Gradual rates" emphasize the slowness and steadiness of change, while "progressive rates" often imply a forward or developmental direction in addition to the rate of change.