take gradual steps

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "take gradual steps" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a process of making progress slowly and steadily, often in the context of achieving a goal or making changes. Example: "To improve your health, it's important to take gradual steps, such as incorporating more fruits and vegetables into your diet."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

Senior administration officials said they would take gradual steps to avoid harming the already struggling housing market.

The Washington Post

One issue not explicitly addressed by the survey is whether the world is already under such a threat from climate change that we can't afford to take "gradual" steps toward reducing the risks, an option that garners considerable Republican support above.

The Washington Post

Therefore, the focus of UNICEF's assistance from now on is to support national partners in planning action and to take gradual steps towards making the system work.

UNICEF

Take gradual steps.

WikiHow

Take gradual steps to changing your situation but at least face the possibility; always keep your eye on what you want out of your precious years of life rather than on the pound of flesh the workplace seems to be taking from you.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

He takes gradual steps.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Beginning to understand your grieving experience, and taking gradual steps to address your pain and loss, can be important and integral components of recovering from your grief.

University of California, Berkeley

Psychologist Brent Roberts has shown that the trait conscientiousness takes gradual steps up throughout the lifetime – including a considerable jump between 45 and 55.

The Guardian

IN September, Cathy DeVore, a real estate agent in Larchmont, N.Y., whose business has been at a standstill lately, began taking gradual steps to lay off her longtime nanny and housekeeper.

The New York Times

In addition to taking gradual steps to ease her back into her own room and talking about her daily concerns to help my girl work through the anxiety, I also took advice from a known expert: Professor Dumbledore.

The Washington Post

"We have taken gradual steps with the few providers who have struggled with preventing young people who leave the nonsecure residences without permission, including the closure of two providers from the program," according to the statement.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "take gradual steps" when explaining a process that requires careful adjustment and monitoring, like introducing a new policy or managing a behavioral change.

Common error

Avoid using "take gradual steps" as an excuse to delay necessary actions. While gradual progress is often beneficial, it should not be used to mask a lack of initiative or to postpone crucial decisions. Ensure each step, however small, contributes meaningfully to the overall goal.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "take gradual steps" functions as a verb phrase, indicating a method of approaching a task or situation. It emphasizes the process of making progress in a slow, measured way, as shown by Ludwig's examples. The phrase can also function as a noun if converted into a gerund phrase ('Taking gradual steps...').

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

40%

Science

20%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "take gradual steps" is a useful expression for advising a slow and steady approach to achieving goals or managing change. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in written English. While the phrase is versatile, it's important to ensure that the gradual approach doesn't become an excuse for inaction. As demonstrated across diverse sources like The New York Times, The Washington Post, and even WikiHow, "take gradual steps" is best suited for contexts where careful adjustment and sustained effort are key. Similar alternatives, like "proceed incrementally" or "move forward cautiously", can offer subtle variations in emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

proceed in stages

Emphasizes breaking down a process into distinct phases.

advance incrementally

Highlights making progress in small, measurable amounts.

move forward cautiously

Focuses on the careful and deliberate nature of the advancement.

adopt a phased approach

Suggests implementing a plan through distinct stages.

make measured progress

Highlights careful and controlled advancement.

work in stages

Focuses on completing tasks in a series of steps.

go step by step

Indicates a meticulous and methodical approach.

advance by degrees

Suggests moving forward in small increments.

undertake a staged implementation

Suggests implementing a complex plan by using multiple phases.

employ a step-wise method

Describes using a process that involves specific ordered actions or procedures.

FAQs

How can I use "take gradual steps" in a sentence?

You can use "take gradual steps" to describe a process of making progress slowly and steadily. For instance, "To master a new language, it's best to "take gradual steps", focusing on basic vocabulary and grammar before moving on to more complex topics."

What phrases are similar to "take gradual steps"?

Similar phrases include "proceed incrementally", "move forward cautiously", or "adopt a phased approach", each suggesting a slow, steady method of progression.

What's the difference between "take gradual steps" and "take immediate action"?

"Take gradual steps" implies a slow and deliberate process, whereas "take immediate action" suggests acting quickly and decisively. The choice depends on the urgency and nature of the situation.

Is it better to "take gradual steps" or "make rapid changes"?

Whether to "take gradual steps" or "make rapid changes" depends on the context. Gradual steps are suitable for complex or sensitive situations where careful adjustment is needed, while rapid changes may be necessary in urgent or crisis situations.