gradually change

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "gradually change" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a process of slow or incremental transformation over time. Example: "The climate is expected to gradually change over the next few decades, impacting ecosystems and weather patterns."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

I suspect that attitudes will gradually change.

The New York Times

This would, thank God, gradually change.

The New Yorker

"But that'll gradually change in the mortgage world".

The New York Times

Abe's Essay The seasons gradually change, but time stands still.

The New York Times - Sports

"I'm convinced that if we succeed in that, the rest of society will gradually change".

The New York Times

"While they play the game, the orchestra will gradually change the music on the fly".

The New York Times

Then you can gradually change or eliminate the rewards once your gym habit is firmly established.

Independent

Livingstone explained, "A baby's eyes start out farsighted and, as they develop, gradually change shape to achieve perfect focus.

The New Yorker

He goes on, "And there's another reality that takes place — they gradually change it to where they came from".

The New Yorker

It is completely not in the traditions of America, though new immigrants will possibly begin to gradually change these traditions.

The New York Times

The Danish model is celebrated as proof that once cities have pipes installed, they can gradually change what is connected to either end.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing organizational changes, use "gradually change" to convey a sense of managed and controlled evolution, reducing potential resistance from stakeholders.

Common error

Avoid using "gradually change" when the situation involves immediate or radical transformations. "Gradually change" is more suited to processes that unfold over time, not overnight.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "gradually change" functions as an adverb-verb construction, modifying the verb "change" to indicate the manner in which the action occurs. It signifies a process that unfolds slowly and steadily. Ludwig provides numerous examples illustrating this usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Science

36%

Wiki

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "gradually change" is a versatile adverb-verb construction used to describe transformations that occur incrementally over time. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across diverse contexts, particularly in news, scientific, and general informational domains. Alternatives like ""evolve steadily"" or ""shift progressively"" offer nuanced variations, but "gradually change" remains a clear and effective way to communicate slow and steady modification. Remember to use "gradually change" only when describing processes that unfold over time and not for immediate radical changes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

change incrementally

Emphasizes that the change happens in small steps.

evolve steadily

Focuses on a continuous and consistent development over time.

shift progressively

Highlights the ongoing and forward-moving nature of the change.

transform slowly

Stresses the extended duration of the transformation process.

develop gradually

Focuses on the unfolding and maturation aspect of the change.

alter bit by bit

Highlights the small increments in which the change happens

modify step by step

Implies a planned and methodical approach to changing something.

morph over time

Suggests a natural and organic change process.

adjust in stages

Suggests a series of controlled modifications.

convert piecemeal

Emphasizes the fragmented and progressive nature of the change.

FAQs

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

You can use "gradually change" to describe a slow or incremental transformation over time, such as "The company plans to "gradually change" its policies to be more inclusive".

What are some alternatives to "gradually change"?

Alternatives include "evolve steadily", "shift progressively", or "transform slowly", depending on the specific context and desired emphasis.

Is it better to "gradually change" or to make sudden changes?

Whether to "gradually change" or make sudden changes depends on the situation. Gradual changes are often less disruptive, while sudden changes may be necessary in crisis situations. Consider which will create a "shift progressively" in the right direction.

What's the difference between "gradually change" and "completely change"?

"Gradually change" implies a slow and incremental transformation, while "completely change" suggests a total and immediate overhaul. It is a process to "transform slowly" versus an instant replacement.