gradually crossword – All Crossword Answers
Stuck on "gradually" in your crossword? You've come to the right place! We've compiled a comprehensive list of potential answers, complete with explanations, to help you complete your puzzle quickly and efficiently.
Solutions for "gradually crossword" by Letter Count
6 Letters
SLOWLY: This answer perfectly captures the essence of something happening at a deliberate, unhurried pace.
INCHES: As in 'inches along', implying a very slow, gradual movement or progression.
8 Letters
STEADILY: Implies a consistent and continuous progression, which often aligns with the nuance of 'gradually'.
9 Letters
BYDEGREES: This phrase explicitly describes a step-by-step or incremental process, making it a strong fit for 'gradually'.
10 Letters
STEPBYSTEP: An excellent match, indicating a methodical, non-sudden advancement.
14 Letters
LITTLEBYLITTLE: Clearly signifies a process that unfolds in small increments over time.
More About "gradually crossword"
The clue "gradually" in a crossword puzzle is a classic example of an adverbial clue that describes the manner or pace of an action. It prompts solvers to think about synonyms or phrases that convey a sense of slow, consistent, or incremental change rather than an abrupt one. This type of clue tests a solver's vocabulary depth, especially their knowledge of adverbs and common idiomatic expressions related to progression.
When encountering "gradually," consider not just single words but also multi-word answers that function as adverbs, such as "by degrees" or "little by little." The specific number of letters required for the answer is crucial here, as it will narrow down the possibilities significantly. Context from intersecting words is also invaluable, helping to confirm whether 'slowly' fits or if a more nuanced answer like 'steadily' is required.
Understanding the subtle differences between synonyms is key to mastering clues like this. While 'slowly' might imply a lack of speed, 'gradually' often emphasizes the process of development over time. Paying attention to these nuances will not only help you solve the current puzzle but also improve your general crossword-solving skills for future challenges.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Nuance: For clues like "gradually," think about the subtle meanings. Is it just slow, or is it about a steady, incremental process? This can help you differentiate between 'SLOWLY' and 'STEADILY'.
- Consider Phrase Answers: Don't limit yourself to single words. Many crossword clues, especially for adverbs, can have multi-word answers such as 'BYDEGREES' or 'STEPBYSTEP'. Always count the blanks carefully.
- Leverage Intersecting Words: The most powerful tool in your crossword arsenal! Use letters from already solved intersecting clues to narrow down possibilities for "gradually." If you have an 'L' in the third position, 'SLOWLY' becomes a much stronger candidate.
- Think about Opposites: Sometimes considering the antonyms (e.g., suddenly, abruptly) can spark ideas for synonyms.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "gradually" imply in a crossword clue?
In crosswords, 'gradually' typically implies a progression that is slow, consistent, or incremental rather than sudden or abrupt. Common synonyms like 'slowly', 'steadily', or phrases like 'step by step' are often expected answers.
How many letters are typical for answers to 'gradually'?
Answers for 'gradually' can vary widely in length, from shorter words like 'SLOWLY' (6 letters) and 'INCHES' (6 letters) to longer phrases like 'BYDEGREES' (9 letters) or 'LITTLEBYLITTLE' (14 letters). Always check the number of blanks in your specific puzzle.
Are there synonyms for 'gradually' that often appear in crosswords?
Yes, common crossword synonyms or related phrases include 'slowly', 'steadily', 'incrementally', 'by degrees', 'bit by bit', 'little by little', 'in time', and 'over time'. The context of other intersecting words is key to determining the correct answer.