it was only gradually

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it was only gradually" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a process or change that occurs slowly over time. Example: "It was only gradually that she began to understand the complexities of the situation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

It was only gradually that I discovered that writers were human beings".

The Guardian - Books

It was only gradually that he became aware of the consequences of selling drugs.

The Guardian - Music

It was only gradually that I came to realize that other children did not see their parents like this.

The New York Times - Books

It was only gradually, through contact with men from the more settled states, that Genghis Khan came to realize that there were more sophisticated ways of enjoying power than simply raiding, destroying, and plundering.

Encyclopedia Britannica

King Edward III of England acquired it in 1333, and it was only gradually won back by the Scots, the border town of Berwick-upon-Tweed Berwick-upon-Tweed Berwick-upon-Tweeds.

Encyclopedia Britannica

We also lose, as Tony Palmer's film Toward the Unknown Region (2004) brought home to South Bank Show viewers, a remarkable survivor of mental illness during a period when it was only gradually coming to be acknowledged, treated and discussed without stigma.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

It's only gradually you notice how complex this dream state actually is.

The Guardian - Music

Sitting across the table from Elyse and Paula, it's only gradually that their differences fade into the foreground, like watching people loom into view through mist.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Another writer who interviewed her said, "It is only gradually you discern the fragile warmth that wanders through her like a jailed spirit".

Independent

It is a sticky night: I shed my jacket last week, and it is only gradually that I understand that the noise is coming from the first air-conditioner turned on for the year.

The New Yorker

Her Madame Arcati is dotty, to be sure, but it is only gradually that you realize what sounds like scatterbrained chatter is really a sign that she is the most confident person in the play: she cheerfully admits mistakes and pushes on to find formulas, magic or otherwise, that will work.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it was only gradually", consider providing context about the initial state or situation before the gradual change occurred. This helps the reader appreciate the extent and significance of the shift.

Common error

Avoid using "only" excessively in your writing. While "it was only gradually" is grammatically correct, overuse can make your writing sound repetitive. Consider using synonyms to diversify your expressions of gradual change.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it was only gradually" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate the pace at which an action, realization, or change occurs. This function is supported by examples provided by Ludwig, where the phrase prefaces clauses describing slowly unfolding processes.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Encyclopedias

27%

Science

26%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it was only gradually" is a grammatically correct adverbial phrase used to emphasize the slow and progressive nature of a change, realization, or action. As highlighted by Ludwig, it's commonly found in news, encyclopedias, and scientific contexts, suggesting its suitability for formal and neutral writing styles. While grammatically sound, one should avoid overusing "only" for emphasis, and vary expressions with synonyms. Ludwig AI confirms the validity and usability of the phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

only slowly did it become apparent

Changes the sentence structure to emphasize the slowness of realization.

it dawned slowly

Uses a metaphorical expression to suggest a gradual understanding.

the realization crept in slowly

Emphasizes the subtle and progressive nature of understanding.

it became clear over time

Highlights the temporal aspect of gaining clarity.

the understanding evolved slowly

Focuses on the evolutionary nature of comprehension.

it unfolded slowly

Suggests a gradual unveiling or revelation of information.

the change was incremental

Highlights the small, successive steps of the transformation.

it registered only after a while

Indicates a delayed recognition or awareness.

the effects manifested gradually

Focuses on the progressive appearance of consequences or results.

it took time to fully grasp

Highlights the temporal requirement for complete comprehension.

FAQs

How can I use "it was only gradually" in a sentence?

Use "it was only gradually" to describe a process, realization, or change that occurs slowly over time. For example, "It was only gradually that she began to understand the complexities of the situation".

What are some alternatives to "it was only gradually"?

Alternatives include phrases like "only slowly did it become apparent", "it dawned slowly", or "it became clear over time", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is there a difference between "it was only gradually" and "it was gradual"?

"It was gradual" simply states that something happened slowly. "It was only gradually" emphasizes that the realization or change was not immediate and took time to develop.

Which is more appropriate in formal writing: "it was only gradually" or "it happened slowly"?

While both are acceptable, "it was only gradually" tends to be more suitable for formal writing as it conveys a sense of measured observation and nuanced understanding compared to the more straightforward "it happened slowly".