improving gradually

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "improving gradually" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a process or situation that is getting better over time, often in a slow or steady manner. Example: "The patient's condition is improving gradually, and we are hopeful for a full recovery."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

ChevronTexaco's fortunes seem to be improving gradually.

The New York Times

He expects the economy to continue improving gradually.

The New York Times

I taught myself, improving gradually through practice and perseverance.

The Guardian

The Fed also said the labor market was improving gradually.

The New York Times

We said it was not explosive, but that it was improving gradually.

The New York Times

Hitchcock said he was improving gradually and itching to get back on the mound.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

33 human-written examples

I wanted him to improve gradually.

The Guardian - Sport

The job and housing markets continue to improve gradually, according to economic reports released Thursday.

The New York Times

With each successive flight, systems were tested and improved, gradually expanding the capabilities of the craft.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Oil analysts said they expected the gasoline shortages in much of the Southeast to improve gradually through Columbus Day.

The New York Times

Aggregate spending, despite high energy prices, appears to have strengthened since late winter, and labor market conditions continue to improve gradually.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider varying your language to avoid repetition; synonyms like "progressing steadily" or "making incremental progress" can add nuance to your writing.

Common error

While "improving gradually" accurately describes slow progress, it's not suitable for situations requiring immediate or drastic change. If a situation demands a swift turnaround, opt for phrases that convey urgency or rapid improvement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "improving gradually" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb, describing the manner in which an action (improvement) is occurring. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "improving gradually" is a grammatically correct and widely used adverbial phrase to describe slow and steady progress. Ludwig AI validates its usage across diverse contexts, including News & Media and Science. While versatile, it's crucial to avoid overusing it in situations demanding immediate change, instead, opting for phrases indicating urgency. Alternatives like "progressing steadily" or "making incremental progress" can also enhance your writing. Consider the specific nuance you wish to convey when choosing the most appropriate phrase. The phrase is mostly used in News & Media and Science.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

progressing steadily

Focuses on the consistent and unwavering nature of the improvement.

slowly getting better

Emphasizes the slowness of the improvement process.

making incremental progress

Highlights the small steps involved in the overall improvement.

showing gradual gains

Focuses on the positive gains achieved over time.

developing incrementally

Stresses the step-by-step development aspect of the process.

advancing in stages

Highlights the staged nature of the advancement.

ameliorating slowly

Uses a more formal term (ameliorating) to describe the slow improvement.

on the mend gradually

Idiomatic expression focusing on recovery and gradual improvement, typically used in health-related contexts.

picking up little by little

Emphasizes the small increments of improvement.

evolving slowly

Highlights the evolutionary aspect and the slow pace of change.

FAQs

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

You can use "improving gradually" to describe a process or situation that is getting better over time, often in a slow and steady manner. For example: "The patient's condition is "improving gradually", and we are hopeful for a full recovery".

What are some alternatives to "improving gradually"?

Alternatives include "progressing steadily", "slowly getting better", or "making incremental progress", depending on the specific context you wish to emphasize.

Is it always appropriate to use "improving gradually"?

No, it is not always appropriate. Use it when describing situations where progress is slow and steady. For situations needing immediate change, consider phrases that convey urgency or rapid improvement.

What does it mean when something is "improving gradually"?

When something is "improving gradually", it means it is getting better slowly and steadily over time. It suggests a consistent but not rapid rate of progress.