gradually shrinking

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "gradually shrinking" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is decreasing in size, amount, or intensity over time. Example: "The ice caps are gradually shrinking due to climate change."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

45 human-written examples

This kind of detente ultimately favors Russia's involvement, but only in the gradually-shrinking sphere of influence that is gradually shrinking around the Assad regime.

Vice

A significant gap remains in dollars, but it is gradually shrinking, the official said.

The New York Times - Sports

Abortion laws are an island unto themselves, and that island is gradually shrinking".

The New York Times - Magazine

Chinese manufacturers' backlogs of orders are gradually shrinking in many industries.

The New York Times

Population 1,200 and gradually shrinking, it is the seat of a county without a single traffic light.

The New York Times

The fact that China's population is aging — and its labor force gradually shrinking — adds to the pressure for a structural overhaul.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

14 human-written examples

As it progresses the surviving retina gradually shrinks in size, reducing vision.

Independent

However, like the rest of the UK steel industry, it has gradually shrunk.

The Guardian - Business

Hamilton casts Gingrich as a ridiculous figure who gradually shrinks in stature next to the president.

The New York Times - Books

Over a fortnight, the work gradually shrank as visitors were encouraged to consume the fruit.

The Guardian - Arts

Banks with too few deposits will gradually shrink and be unable to participate in juicy new lending opportunities.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "gradually shrinking", ensure the context clearly indicates what is decreasing in size or scope, and that the gradual nature of the change is relevant to the message.

Common error

Avoid using "gradually shrinking" when the decrease is rapid or abrupt. This phrase specifically denotes a slow, progressive reduction. Using it inappropriately can mislead your audience about the rate of change.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "gradually shrinking" functions as a verb phrase, where "gradually" is an adverb modifying the verb "shrinking". It indicates a process of diminishing size or extent occurring over time. Ludwig shows that this phrase is generally used to describe a slow and ongoing reduction.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Science

28%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "gradually shrinking" is a versatile and commonly used expression that describes a slow and ongoing process of reduction. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage across various domains, particularly in News & Media and Science. The analysis reveals that while grammatically correct, it is important to use it to describe a continuous, and un-abrupt reduction of something. Alternatives like "gradually decreasing" or "slowly diminishing" can be used for subtle changes in meaning, depending on context. Remember to avoid using it when the reduction is sudden or fast.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

gradually decreasing

Focuses on the reduction in quantity or value rather than physical size.

slowly diminishing

Emphasizes the slowness of the reduction.

progressively lessening

Highlights the step-by-step nature of the decrease.

steadily declining

Suggests a consistent and unwavering decrease.

incrementally reducing

Focuses on small, measurable reductions over time.

bit by bit decreasing

Implies very small reductions over time.

regularly diminishing

Highlights the regularity of the diminishing.

in stages decreasing

Suggests it happens in various steps.

little by little getting smaller

Emphasizes the small increments of change and reduction in size.

at a measured pace getting smaller

Suggests a deliberate or controlled process of size reduction.

FAQs

What does "gradually shrinking" mean?

The phrase "gradually shrinking" describes something that is decreasing in size, amount, or importance over a period of time.

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

You might say, "The company's market share is "gradually shrinking" due to increased competition" or "The glacier is "gradually shrinking" because of global warming".

What are some alternatives to "gradually shrinking"?

Alternatives include "gradually decreasing", "slowly diminishing", or "progressively lessening", depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "gradually shrinking" in formal writing?

Yes, "gradually shrinking" is suitable for formal writing, as it's grammatically correct and widely used in reputable sources. However, ensure it accurately reflects the slow and progressive nature of the reduction.