GRADUAL Synonyms: 22 Similar and Opposite Words

gradual

adjective

ˈgra-jə-wəl

Definition of gradual

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

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of gradual According to Formlabs, this improves strength, toughness, heat resistance, and resistance to gradual deformation under sustained loads, while producing a harder, less tacky surface. — Michael Lydick, PC Magazine, 14 Oct. 2026 Raise and lower the heat in gradual increments, and work with ingredients at compatible temperatures to ensure gradual incorporation. — Laura Manzano, Martha Stewart, 14 Oct. 2026 The hurricane center said the storm's intensity could fluctuate over the next few days but would likely maintain hurricane strength through Thursday, with gradual weakening forecast thereafter. — CBS News, 13 Oct. 2026 Looking ahead, there is a gradual warming trend this week with increasing humidity and rain chances, according to NWS Melbourne. — Garfield Hylton, The Orlando Sentinel, 13 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for gradual

Recent Examples of Synonyms for gradual

Adjective

But in terms of the stocks, that concern is not going to go away because there will be incremental data points.

— Nilay Patel, The Verge, 17 Oct. 2026
The bank expects incremental margins to improve and noted current inflation levels could help the company attract consumers.

— Ananya Chetia,Darla Mercado, CFP®, CNBC, 15 Oct. 2026

Definition of incremental

Adjective

The company had submitted the exemption request on December 31, 2025, as part of the first phase of its phased Construction Permit Application.

— Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 15 Sep. 2026
The process features multiple layers of review, numerous strict subject-matter restrictions and a notoriously short, multi-phased signature-gathering window.

— Editorial, Boston Herald, 5 Sep. 2026

Definition of phased

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grading

gradual

gradually

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“Gradual.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/gradual. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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Synonyms of gradual

adjective

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