unfolding gradually

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "unfolding gradually" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a process or event that is happening slowly over time, revealing itself step by step. Example: "The plot of the novel is intriguing, with the mystery unfolding gradually as the story progresses."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

Where basil burns and pops, tarragon is subtle, its impact unfolding gradually.

The New York Times - Magazine

It can be difficult to keep things moving quickly enough, and yet to keep alive the sense that what is happening is unfolding gradually.

The New Yorker

Exquisitely composed, unfolding gradually, suffused with light and color, his tender yet unsentimental images convey the graceful rhythms and quiet sorrows of young lives on hold.

The New Yorker

In place of White's cast of thousands (the lovers, the acolytes, the shimmying conga line of celebrities) we get a handful of Fleming's closest relationships, unfolding gradually across the years.

The New York Times - Books

One gesture that this work has in common with "Pipa" -- and with "Avatars," the solo piano work that closed the concert -- is the use of sudden, dissonant bursts, set against a backdrop that had been unfolding gradually and insistently.

The New York Times - Arts

Their backstory is unfolding gradually, but Tommy grew up on the shady side of the law and got most of his education on the street.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

The film's meaning unfolds gradually; the layers are peeled away.

The Guardian - Film

And in Hudson Stage's touching new production, the truth unfolds gradually and gracefully.

The New York Times

Clarkson, in particular, is spot-on; her character unfolds gradually into the serenity that comes with hard-earned self-sufficiency.

The Guardian - Film

North Korea, so the scenario unfolds, gradually moves to a market economy under the grip of its one-party rule.

The New York Times

And though Mr. Hosokawa's music unfolds gradually, it juxtaposes sharply with the darting movements of the dancers: a deliberate decision by Ms. Waltz.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "unfolding gradually" to emphasize the patience and observation required to understand a complex situation or story. This is particularly effective when the full picture is not immediately apparent.

Common error

Avoid using "unfolding gradually" when describing simple, straightforward events. This phrase is best suited for complex or mysterious situations where the details are revealed over time.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "unfolding gradually" functions as a verb phrase modified by an adverb, describing the manner in which something is revealed or developed. Ludwig shows examples where this describes plots, flavors, and even historical changes.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Encyclopedias

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "unfolding gradually" describes a process or event that reveals itself slowly over time. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability across various contexts, mainly in News & Media, Science, and Encyclopedias. While alternatives like "progressing incrementally" or "developing steadily" exist, "unfolding gradually" emphasizes the revealing nature of the process. It is best used in complex scenarios where patience and observation are key, and should be avoided in simple situations. Use this information to improve your writing!

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

revealing itself slowly

Shifts the focus to the act of revealing rather than the gradual process itself.

unveiling in stages

Highlights the planned and deliberate aspect of the revealing.

developing steadily

Highlights consistent advancement, downplaying the revealing aspect.

becoming apparent gradually

Shifts focus to the increasing visibility or understanding.

evolving over time

Emphasizes the temporal aspect of the unfolding.

progressing incrementally

Focuses on the small steps of advancement rather than the revealing aspect.

building up slowly

Suggests a cumulative effect as the process unfolds.

emerging bit by bit

Underscores the fragmented and piecemeal nature of the revealing.

advancing in increments

Stresses the stepwise nature of the advancement.

materializing progressively

Highlights the transition from potential to actual existence.

FAQs

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

Use "unfolding gradually" to describe events or processes that develop or become known slowly over time. For example, "The mystery in the novel is "unfolding gradually", keeping readers engaged."

What are some alternatives to "unfolding gradually"?

Alternatives include "progressing incrementally", "developing steadily", or "evolving over time", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it redundant to say "unfolding gradually"?

While "unfolding" inherently implies a process over time, adding "gradually" emphasizes the slow and deliberate nature of the development. It can be useful for clarity or emphasis.

When is it most appropriate to use the phrase "unfolding gradually"?

The phrase is particularly suitable when describing complex narratives, mysteries, or long-term processes where understanding or awareness increases incrementally, rather than all at once.