gradually diminish

USAGE SUMMARY

'gradually diminish' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to talk about something decreasing slowly and steadily over a period of time. Example sentence: The number of seabirds in the area has gradually diminished over the past decade.

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

31 human-written examples

Dr. DeVere said that over time smell disorders may gradually diminish in intensity, as his did.

The New York Times - Health

The reduced visa limit may gradually diminish the United States' ability to attract the most talented workers, industry leaders contend.

The New York Times

First, that last week's horror will remain a one-off, and that its confidence-shattering impact will gradually diminish.

The Economist

In sports, we're accustomed to seeing the sad sight of legends attempting to stick around long as their abilities gradually diminish.

The Guardian - Sport

As a woman ages, the follicles gradually diminish in number until, at menopause and the cessation of reproductive function, the few remaining follicles degenerate.

Encyclopedia Britannica

They will cooperate with an approach by moderate Arab leaders to bring Arafat to the status of 'symbolic leader' whose hold on the levers of power will gradually diminish".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

29 human-written examples

Since October, his ability to breathe had gradually diminished.

The New York Times

Last season, ABC used the show four times a week, and its ratings gradually diminished.

The New York Times

The level of respect received from doctors, shop assistants, officials of all sorts is gradually diminishing.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It was another milestone in the gradually diminishing American military presence in the country.

The New York Times

This view was maintained with only gradually diminishing conviction for at least another 50 years.

The Guardian - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In scientific writing, this phrase is excellent for describing symptoms, concentrations or physical forces that lose intensity over time.

Common error

Avoid pairing the phrase with other adverbs that mean the same thing, such as "slowly gradually diminish". The word "gradually" already encompasses the concept of slowness and steady progress.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "gradually diminish" functions as a verb phrase modified by an adverb of manner. In the examples provided by Ludwig, it often appears in the future tense with "will" or as an infinitive. It describes a change of state characterized by a slow, continuous reduction.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

45%

News & Media

35%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Wiki

3%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In conclusion, "gradually diminish" is a versatile and correct phrase widely used in high-level English. Ludwig AI demonstrates its strength in providing clarity across diverse fields, from describing how smell disorders fade over time in health reports to detailing fossil fuel consumption policies. It strikes a perfect balance between accessibility and formal precision, making it an ideal choice for writers who need to describe a steady reduction without sounding overly simplistic. Whether you are discussing economic advantages or biological follicles, this phrase remains a robust tool for any professional vocabulary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

slowly decrease

uses more common vocabulary suitable for general communication

steadily decline

emphasizes the constant and unvarying nature of the reduction

progressively dwindle

suggests a process where something becomes smaller until almost nothing remains

taper off

often refers to a reduction in activity or volume toward an end point

fade away

implies a loss of visibility, intensity or presence over time

ebb away

uses a tidal metaphor to describe a receding flow of emotion or power

wane gradually

frequently associated with the lunar cycle or diminishing influence

lessen incrementally

highlights that the reduction occurs in specific, measurable steps

recede slowly

primarily used for physical distance or the withdrawal of a substance

subside bit by bit

focuses on the settling or calming of an intense state

FAQs

How do I use "gradually diminish" in a sentence?

You can use it as an intransitive verb phrase, for example: "The symptoms of the infection will gradually diminish over the next few days". You can also use the participial form as an adjective: "The project suffered from "gradually diminishing" resources".

What is the difference between "gradually diminish" and "taper off"?

"gradually diminish" is more formal and general, while "taper off" often implies a reduction in thickness or a narrowing toward an end.

Is "gradually diminish" appropriate for academic papers?

Yes, it is highly appropriate. Ludwig AI shows extensive usage in scientific databases like ScienceDirect and Springer, where it describes everything from chemical concentrations to structural stiffness.

Can I say "slowly decrease" instead?

Yes, "slowly decrease" is a perfectly valid and more common alternative, though it may lack the formal nuance provided by "diminish".