Gradationally

Part of speech: adverb

Pronunciation: /ɡɹəˈdeɪʃənəli/

Definitions

1. In a manner that suggests a gradual series of stages, implying a transition that progresses steadily through different levels or degrees over time
2. Characterized by a process that unfolds in small, incremental steps, indicating a continuous development across varying phases or intervals
3. In a way that reflects a slow and steady movement from one stage to another, demonstrating a gradual change across different levels or degrees over time

Etymology: "Gradationally" is a plain formation: the adjective "gradational," which describes things arranged in graded steps or degrees, with the adverbial suffix "-ly" attached. The base adjective itself is built from "gradation," a noun that traces back to Latin "gradus," meaning "step" or "degree," the same root that gives English "grade," "gradual," and "degree." The suffix does the work here. Adding "-ly" turns the adjective into an adverb describing how something happens, so a process that unfolds in stages is said to happen "gradationally." Because the word is a straightforward combination of familiar parts, its meaning follows directly from them: a step, plus the quality of having steps, plus the manner of acting in that way.

Synonyms: progressively, incrementally

Antonyms: suddenly, abruptly