gradually but steadily

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "gradually but steadily" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a process or change that occurs slowly over time while maintaining a consistent pace. Example: "The project progressed gradually but steadily, leading to a successful completion ahead of schedule."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

It gradually but steadily improves.

Harvard Business Review

In America, circulation has been gradually but steadily falling since 1990, according to Editor & Publisher, a trade journal.

The Economist

Wil Swanson has repaid the loyalty of his audiences by growing, gradually but steadily, into a choreographer of impressive authority and invention.

The New York Times - Arts

Wilmoth explained that although population growth rate had declined "gradually but steadily" since the 1970s, it had done so at different speeds in different parts of the world.

The Guardian

Under pressure from Congress, Mr. Greenspan has gradually, but steadily, opened the Fed's deliberations and operations to greater scrutiny and communicated its decisions more rapidly.

The New York Times

They also note that since the introduction of the constructivist curriculums -- Investigations for elementary school, Connected Math for junior high, Core Plus for high school -- those scores have risen gradually but steadily.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

In the sample that was subjected to ill-controlled temperature conditions, the aggregation to form large Pd particles might occur slowly but steadily, causing the sensor to gradually lose its selectivity.

Nano-Micro Letters

The addition of NaHCO3 elevated the pH value of the solution gradually and steadily.

Surface and Coatings Technology

It was as if the government had gradually and steadily dug a hole that would one day, for sure, need filling.

The Guardian

The lack of competitiveness in House districts has come gradually and steadily and not simply as a result of partisan gerrymandering.

The Washington Post

For this reason, the number of genetic mutations in a man's sperm appear to increase gradually and steadily with age.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "gradually but steadily", ensure that the context clearly indicates a process or change that is both slow and consistent over a period of time. This phrasing is effective for emphasizing reliability and persistence.

Common error

Avoid using "gradually but steadily" to describe events that occur rapidly or sporadically. This phrase implies a consistent, slow progression, not sudden or irregular changes.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "gradually but steadily" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying verbs to describe the manner in which an action is performed. Ludwig AI examples show it frequently describes progress or change occurring over time. Ludwig AI confirms that it is a correct and usable phrase in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Science

29%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "gradually but steadily" is a commonly used adverbial phrase that describes a process or change occurring slowly and consistently over time. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase's correctness and usability in various contexts. The phrase is versatile, suitable for both formal and informal writing, and is frequently found in news articles, scientific publications, and business reports. While numerous alternatives exist, such as "slowly but surely" or "incrementally and consistently", understanding its proper usage ensures effective communication. Remember that this phrase implies continuous progress, not sudden or erratic changes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

slowly but surely

Emphasizes the certainty of progress despite the slowness, focusing on eventual success.

incrementally and consistently

Highlights the small, additive steps taken with unwavering regularity.

progressively yet consistently

Indicates forward movement coupled with a reliable pattern.

steadily over time

Focuses on the continuous progression throughout a duration.

bit by bit without fail

Stresses the small increments and the dependable nature of the advancement.

step by step in a sustained manner

Highlights each individual step and the ongoing commitment to the process.

moderately but reliably

Emphasizes the measured pace and the dependability of the process.

in a slow but continuous fashion

Focuses on the unhurried pace and the uninterrupted nature of the progression.

at a measured yet constant pace

Highlights the deliberate speed and the unchanging rhythm of the advancement.

unhurriedly and constantly

Emphasizes the lack of rush and the perpetual nature of the development.

FAQs

What does "gradually but steadily" mean?

The phrase "gradually but steadily" describes a process or change that happens slowly over time but with consistent progress. It emphasizes both the slowness and the reliability of the advancement.

How can I use "gradually but steadily" in a sentence?

You can use "gradually but steadily" to describe any situation where something is progressing slowly and consistently. For example, "The company's profits increased "gradually but steadily" over the last five years."

What are some alternatives to "gradually but steadily"?

Alternatives to "gradually but steadily" include "slowly but surely", "incrementally and consistently", or "steadily over time". Each phrase conveys a similar meaning with slightly different emphasis.

Is "gradually but steadily" formal or informal?

"Gradually but steadily" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. It's commonly used in news articles, business reports, and academic papers, as well as in everyday conversation.