grown gradually

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "grown gradually" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a process of development or increase that occurs slowly over time. Example: "The company's profits have grown gradually over the past five years, reflecting its steady expansion in the market."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

The side has grown gradually in stature, coinciding directly with Duncan Fletcher's time as coach.

The Guardian - Sport

The business has grown gradually over a decade, swelling, like its dough, organically.

The New York Times

The match, in a public park, has grown gradually and built a dedicated following for what is essentially a pickup game.

The New York Times - Sports

So it was cheering this year to see the prize go to a group who've grown gradually, stretching themselves along the way, with the backing of a label (Fiction) that takes developing careers seriously, and whose music conveys a sense of experimenting.

The Guardian - Music

Pitstop Once a chiringuito shack selling cold drinks and snacks to a small crowd of tourists, Restaurante Aguas Blancas has grown gradually over the years, with a little bit of timber here and a few planks of decking there, into today's fully fledged beach restaurant.

The Guardian - Travel

On the Palestinian side, armed men from Hamas, the militant Islamic group that controls Gaza, checked the returning shoppers for contraband and weapons.The shortages in Gaza have grown gradually worse since Israel, having declared Gaza a "hostile entity", began restricting imports three months ago in response to a continued rain of Qassam rockets onto nearby Israeli towns.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

Traffic grew gradually for CNN.com.

The New York Times

I want my career to grow gradually.

The New York Times

Seniors Network has been growing gradually over the past two years.

The Guardian - Tech

His popularity grew gradually, then explosively, with support of fans like Garrison Keillor.

The New York Times

I think you have to be on board with growing gradually to make it happen.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "grown gradually" to emphasize a slow and natural progression over time, rather than a sudden or forced change.

Common error

While "grown gradually" accurately describes slow development, avoid using it when the context requires a sense of immediate or rapid change. In such cases, opt for phrases like "increased rapidly" or "expanded quickly".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "grown gradually" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to describe the manner in which an action occurs. It specifies that the action (e.g., increasing, developing) happens slowly and steadily over a period of time. As Ludwig AI explains, this construction is both grammatically sound and appropriate for describing incremental processes.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "grown gradually" is a grammatically correct adverbial phrase used to describe a slow and steady process of development or increase. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and appropriateness for describing incremental changes. While "grown gradually" is most commonly found in news and scientific contexts, it maintains a neutral register suitable for various communication styles. Remember to use this phrase when emphasizing the gradual and consistent nature of growth, and avoid it in situations requiring a sense of urgency or rapid change.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

increased steadily

Focuses on a consistent rate of growth, implying a stable and measurable progression.

developed progressively

Highlights the evolution or advancement over time, suggesting a series of stages.

evolved incrementally

Emphasizes the step-by-step nature of the change, suggesting small, cumulative adjustments.

expanded slowly

Indicates a gradual increase in size or scope, focusing on the pace of the enlargement.

progressed gradually

Stresses forward movement and advancement occurring at a measured pace.

advanced steadily

Similar to 'increased steadily' but often implies a movement toward a higher level or goal.

built up over time

Highlights the accumulation of elements or components leading to eventual growth.

accumulated bit by bit

Emphasizes the small increments by which something grows, suggesting a slow and continuous process.

matured slowly

Focuses on the process of reaching full development or ripeness over a prolonged period.

unfolded gradually

Suggests a revelation or unveiling that happens slowly, exposing details over time.

FAQs

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

You can use "grown gradually" to describe the slow development or increase of something over time. For example, "The company's profits have "increased steadily"" or "The town's population has "expanded slowly" since the new factory opened".

What are some alternatives to the phrase "grown gradually"?

Alternatives include "developed progressively", "evolved incrementally", or "built up over time", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "grown gradually" or "increased dramatically"?

The choice depends on the actual rate of growth. "Grown gradually" implies a slow, steady increase, while "increased dramatically" suggests a rapid, significant change. Use the phrase that accurately reflects the situation.

What's the difference between "grown gradually" and "accumulated bit by bit"?

"Grown gradually" describes a general process of increasing over time, while "accumulated bit by bit" emphasizes the small, incremental additions that contribute to the overall growth.