gradual

The word "gradual" is an adjective that we use to describe something that happens slowly and over time.

• She’s making gradual progress.
• His recovery from the accident has been gradual.
• The teacher is seeing gradual improvement in his students’ English skills.
• A gradual decline in home values upset the housing market in this area.
• If the slope on the mountain were more gradual, it would be easier to climb–but it isn’t.

The adverb form of this word is "gradually."

• Daily temperatures in the spring gradually increase.
• He’s gradually getting better.
• Her health is gradually getting worse.
• The economy is gradually improving.
• Gradually, you’ll learn enough English to communicate with confidence.

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