Synonyms of gradual

gradual

adjective

ˈgra-jə-wəl 

as in incremental

proceeding or changing by steps or degrees

a gradual drop in gas prices will take place over the next several months

Synonyms & Similar Words

• incremental
• phased
• progressive
• piecemeal
• step-by-step
• gradational
• stepped
• tapered
• imperceptible
• inching
• decrescent
• increscent

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• sudden
• abrupt
• discontinuous
• acute
• sharp
• dynamic
• saltatory
• volatile
• changeable
• meteoric

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of gradual

McKee did find rookie Makai Lemon throughout the night and picked apart the secondary at times, but there is gradual improvement showing out of the unit. — Nick Harris, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 27 Oct. 2026

But it is directed almost entirely at acute harm from interacting with AI, rather than the cumulative harm that develops over time, such as the gradual replacement of one’s connections with friends and family by AI interaction. — Ned Cooper, STAT, 26 Oct. 2026

His reported early challenges, years of writing, and gradual movement into recording and professional collaborations all form part of that journey. — Kaitlyn Gomez, Miami Herald, 23 Oct. 2026

For the Jordan business, Denton said the resetting of the marketplace needs to be a gradual process to retail partners who rely on the assortment mix. — Vicki M. Young, Footwear News, 23 Oct. 2026