gradualism

1 of 2

noun (1)

grad·​u·​al·​ism ˈgra-jə-wə-ˌli-zəm 

-jə-ˌli-

1

: the policy of approaching a desired end by gradual stages

2

: the evolution of new species by gradual accumulation of small genetic changes over long periods of time

also : a theory or model of evolution emphasizing this compare punctuated equilibrium

gradualist

ˈgra-jə-wə-list 

-jə-list

noun or adjective

gradualistic

ˌgra-jə(-wə)-ˈli-stik 

adjective

gradualist

2 of 2

noun (2)

grad·​u·​al·​ist -lə̇st 

plural -s

: an advocate of a policy, practice, or theory of gradualism

Examples of gradualism in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

Solnit’s argument conveys an idea that might seem paradoxical: radical gradualism. —Literary Hub, 5 Mar. 2026

Compare that to the follow-on conflicts in Iraq, Afghanistan, Syria, and Yemen, where the focus was on gradualism and restraint, not striking a knockout blow as rapidly as possible. —David A. Deptula, Forbes.com, 16 Jan. 2026

But the Trump plan’s gradualism is hardly novel in the context of crisis diplomacy in the Middle East. —Amr Hamzawy, Foreign Affairs, 13 Oct. 2025

Many haven’t learned the importance of gradualism and that change doesn’t often happen overnight. —Paul Rogers, Mercury News, 21 Sep. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Noun (2)

gradual entry 2 + -ist

First Known Use

Noun (1)

1835, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for gradualism

• autism
• fascism
• racism
• sikhism
• sophism
• statism
• sufism
• thomism
• tourism
• tropism
• abolitionism
• aldosteronism

Kids Definition

gradualism

noun

grad·​u·​al·​ism ˈgraj-(ə-)wəl-ˌiz-əm 

ˈgraj-əl-

: the policy of approaching a desired goal by gradual stages

gradualist

-əst 

noun or adjective