gradual

• 形容事物发生或变化缓慢，一步一步地、经过较长时间逐渐进行。

Describes something that happens slowly, step by step, or over a long period of time.

1. Proceeding in small stepsB2formal

   Happening or changing slowly, step by step, over a period of time.

   逐渐的

   • The recovery process was gradual, with small improvements each day.
   • There has been a gradual increase in global temperatures over the last century.
   • Her gradual understanding of the topic came from consistent study.

   同义词incrementalmeasuredmoderatepiecemealprogressiveslowstepwise

   反义词abruptprecipitoussharpsteepsudden

2. Gentle slopeB1formal

   Describing a slope that rises or falls slowly, not steeply or abruptly.

   平缓的坡度

   • The trail has a gradual incline, making it suitable for beginners.
   • The hill’s gradual ascent allowed for an easy hike.
   • A gradual gradient on the road reduces the need for sharp braking.

   同义词easygentleimperceptiblemoderateslight

   反义词abruptsharpsteepsudden

• 名词，指罗马天主教弥撒中在书信之后咏唱或诵读的圣咏应答诗，通常取自《诗篇》。

A noun referring to an antiphon, usually from the Book of Psalms, sung or recited immediately after the epistle at Mass in the Roman Catholic Church.

1. Liturgical chantC2formal

   A specific antiphon, often taken from the Book of Psalms, that is sung or recited immediately after the Epistle during the Mass in the Roman Catholic Church.

   升阶经

   • The choir sang the gradual with great reverence.
   • The priest recited the gradual after reading the Epistle.
   • The gradual is an ancient part of the liturgy.