gradually receded

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "gradually receded" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a process where something diminishes or decreases slowly over time, such as water levels, emotions, or physical presence. Example: "As the storm passed, the floodwaters gradually receded, revealing the damage left behind."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

Recognizing this fact, I have gradually receded from mainstream art practice.

Harvard University

Since Hawkins's death in 1994, the company has gradually receded from the public eye.

The New York Times - Arts

The past gradually receded into the strange land of lost memory.

The Guardian

The concept of a regional solution has gradually receded further into the background.

The Guardian

But with Bill Clinton's election, and particularly with the economic boom of the late nineteen-nineties, which lifted all boats, it gradually receded as a political issue.

The New Yorker

As it began to publish the work of Thomas Wolfe, Ernest Hemingway, William Faulkner, John Steinbeck, Truman Capote, and Norman Mailer, the magazine's risqué image and its once racy air gradually receded.

Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

For most people, the terror quotient gradually recedes and may be replaced by feelings of vulnerability.

The New Yorker

Dialogue gradually recedes as the film progresses: the shattered survivors are simply too numb to communicate.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

It is a fairground ride of a movie in which character and narrative development gradually recede as thrills are foregrounded.

Independent

At the end of August the waters gradually recede until they again reach their lowest point in October.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"Babylonian," said H. I. Brock in The New York Times in 1927, of this new type of gradually receding tower.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "gradually receded" to describe processes that diminish or retreat slowly over time, ensuring the context aligns with the gradual and continuous nature of the action.

Common error

Avoid using "gradually receded" to describe sudden or abrupt disappearances. This phrase is specifically for processes that unfold slowly and continuously, not for events with immediate results.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "gradually receded" functions as a verb phrase indicating a process of slow and continuous reduction or retreat. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Encyclopedias

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Academia

10%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "gradually receded" is a grammatically sound verb phrase that describes a slow and continuous process of diminishing or retreating. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. While the phrase is not extremely common, it appears in a variety of contexts, including news articles, encyclopedias, and scientific publications. When writing, remember that "gradually receded" is best used to describe processes that unfold slowly over time, and should not be used for events with immediate or sudden results. Alternatives such as "slowly diminished" or "steadily declined" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. The phrase is most frequently found in "News & Media", "Encyclopedias" and "Science" contexts. Using the phrase correctly will enhance clarity and precision in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

receded slowly

This is a slight variation, placing emphasis on the speed rather than the manner of receding.

slowly diminished

This alternative uses a more straightforward verb to indicate a decrease, focusing on the reduction in size or impact.

progressively lessened

This option emphasizes the ongoing and incremental nature of the decrease, highlighting the step-by-step reduction.

steadily declined

This alternative emphasizes a consistent downward trend, suggesting a predictable and continuous decrease.

imperceptibly waned

This phrase stresses the subtle and almost unnoticeable nature of the decrease, indicating a slow fading away.

gently faded

This option suggests a smooth and gradual disappearance, often used for less tangible things like memories or colors.

subsided gradually

This alternative is apt when describing the reduction of something forceful or intense, like floodwaters or emotions.

bit by bit disappeared

This alternative emphasizes a very slow, incremental loss until nothing remains.

eased off slowly

This option is more informal, suggesting a gradual reduction in pressure or intensity.

attenuated progressively

This phrase is more formal and technical, implying a gradual weakening or reduction in force or intensity.

FAQs

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

Use "gradually receded" to describe a slow, continuous decline or retreat. For example: "As the tide changed, the water "gradually receded" from the shore."

What are some alternatives to "gradually receded"?

Alternatives include "slowly diminished", "steadily declined", or "progressively lessened" depending on the specific context you want to convey.

Is it better to say "gradually receded" or "receded gradually"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but "gradually receded" is more common. The choice depends on the emphasis you want to give. "Gradually receded" emphasizes the slow pace of receding, while "receded gradually" simply states the action was gradual.

Can "gradually receded" be used for abstract concepts?

Yes, "gradually receded" can describe the diminishing of abstract concepts such as emotions, memories, or influence. For instance, "As time passed, the painful memories "gradually receded"."