gradually decrease

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "gradually decrease" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing a process or trend that diminishes over time, often in contexts such as statistics, economics, or personal habits. Example: "The temperature will gradually decrease as the sun sets, leading to a cooler evening."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Velocities gradually decrease to about one knot off Cape Hatteras.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The number of permits available each year is supposed to gradually decrease, squeezing emissions down.

The New York Times

After puberty the concentrations of IGF-1 gradually decrease with age, as do GH concentrations.

Encyclopedia Britannica

As a result, rainfall levels are relatively low and gradually decrease from north to south.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The mountains gradually decrease in size and elevation southward from Bolivia.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Autumn, season of the year between summer and winter during which temperatures gradually decrease.

Encyclopedia Britannica

On Thursday, the Los Angeles Regional Water Quality Control Board approved a measure to gradually decrease the trash entering the river, reaching zero in 12 to 14 years.

The New York Times

Both LCI and OTLI values gradually decrease.

Chinese Journal of Mechanical Engineering

An increase in FiO2 will gradually decrease the SpO2/FiO2.

Annals of Intensive Care

With any initial mass production release manufacturing reliability be higher but will gradually decrease with more runs.

TechCrunch

These won't be quite as strict, but would rather help users gradually decrease their screen time over longer periods.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing trends, use "gradually decrease" to convey a slow and continuous reduction. This is particularly effective in scientific, economic, or medical contexts where precision is important.

Common error

While accurate, "gradually decrease" can sound overly formal in casual writing. Opt for simpler alternatives like "slowly go down" or "ease off" to maintain a conversational tone.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "gradually decrease" is a verb phrase that describes an action modifying the verb "decrease" by specifying the manner (gradually). As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it indicates a slow and continuous reduction.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

45%

Encyclopedias

12%

News & Media

12%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "gradually decrease" is a verb phrase used to describe a slow and continuous reduction over time. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide applicability. It's most frequently found in scientific and encyclopedic contexts, but also appears in news media. While generally neutral in register, simpler alternatives exist for informal communication. When writing, remember that overuse in casual contexts can sound overly formal, so adapt your word choice to the situation. Related phrases include "steadily decline" and "progressively reduce".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Steadily decline

Replaces "decrease" with "decline" emphasizing a consistent rate of reduction.

Slowly diminish

Substitutes "gradually" with "slowly" and "decrease" with "diminish", suggesting a gentle and subtle reduction.

Progressively reduce

Replaces "gradually" with "progressively" and "decrease" with "reduce", indicating a step-by-step reduction.

Incrementally lessen

Implies a reduction in small steps or amounts, using "incrementally" and "lessen" for emphasis.

Continuously abate

Suggests a persistent lessening or suppression, replacing "decrease" with "abate".

Systematically erode

Indicates a planned or methodical reduction, often in the context of resources or power.

Regularly taper off

Emphasizes a consistent and measured reduction, suitable for describing habits or quantities.

Eventually subside

Focuses on the ultimate calming or settling of something, implying a decrease to a stable state.

Phase out

Suggests a planned and methodical cessation or elimination over a period of time.

Wane

Implies a decline in power, influence, or extent, often used metaphorically.

FAQs

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

You can use "gradually decrease" to describe a process or trend that diminishes over time. For example, "The pain will "gradually decrease" with medication", or "The company plans to "gradually decrease" its carbon emissions over the next decade".

What are some alternatives to "gradually decrease"?

Alternatives to "gradually decrease" include "steadily decline", "slowly diminish", or "progressively reduce". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired nuance.

Is it correct to say "decrease gradually" instead of "gradually decrease"?

While grammatically correct, "gradually decrease" is more common and natural-sounding. Placing "gradually" before "decrease" emphasizes the manner of the reduction. "Decrease gradually" may be used for stylistic variation, but ensure it fits the flow of your writing.

What's the difference between "gradually decrease" and "suddenly decrease"?

"Gradually decrease" implies a slow and continuous reduction over time, whereas "suddenly decrease" indicates an abrupt and rapid decline. The choice between them depends on the actual nature of the change you're describing.