What does "gradualism" mean?
The belief that evolution proceeds at a steady pace, without the sudden development of new species or biological features from one generation to the next.
Gradualism
noun
noun ·5 syllables ·Rare ·Advanced level
Meaning at a glance
- Primary sense: The belief that evolution proceeds at a steady pace, without the sudden development of new species or biological features from one generation to the next.
- Grammar: gradualism is listed as noun.
- Nearest alternatives: chernomyrdin, conversion, descriptive adjective of change, extremism.
- Useful contrasts: parliamentary bold move, scientific revolutions, avalanches.
- Usage evidence: Given enough time, the logic goes, water can cleave solid rock and mountains can be reduced to plains. This "gradualism" now underpins modern geologic thought. ... Maybe we'll find evidence that the rock layers are exposed on the flanks of Mount Sharp [on Mars] not because a river carved through them over millions of years, but because the wind blew against them for billions of years – the ultimate in gradualism.
How to use "gradualism"
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- Compare nearby synonyms to make sure "gradualism" carries the exact meaning, tone, and strength you need.
- Use the example sentence as a context check. If your sentence uses the word differently, confirm that the grammar still fits.
Meaning check
- Does the word fit the sentence's grammar?
- Does it match the intended tone rather than only the dictionary definition?
- Would a simpler synonym be clearer for the reader?
- Is there enough surrounding context to prevent ambiguity?
Source and review context
This entry combines structured lexical data with WordToolSet review checks. Definitions, examples, synonyms, and usage notes may come from different source tables, so the page is designed to show evidence from more than one angle before you rely on "gradualism" in a final draft.
If a word has several senses, prefer the sense that matches your sentence's grammar and surrounding context. A correct definition can still be the wrong choice when the sentence needs a different register, emphasis, or level of specificity.
Before you rely on this definition
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Compare nearby meanings
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Definition decision workflow
1. Identify the role
Check whether "gradualism" is acting as noun in your sentence. A definition is only useful when the grammar matches the way the word is being used.
2. Test the nearest option
Compare it with "chernomyrdin" and other nearby choices to see whether the sentence needs a softer, stronger, or more familiar word.
3. Confirm with context
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Final meaning check
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When the definition, synonym evidence, and example context point in the same direction, the word is usually a safer choice. When they conflict, revise the sentence or choose a clearer alternative.
Definitions
Noun
- 1 The belief that evolution proceeds at a steady pace, without the sudden development of new species or biological features from one generation to the next. countable, uncountable
- 2 The belief that some phenomenon occurs gradually over a long period of time. countable, uncountable
"Given enough time, the logic goes, water can cleave solid rock and mountains can be reduced to plains. This "gradualism" now underpins modern geologic thought. ... Maybe we'll find evidence that the rock layers are exposed on the flanks of Mount Sharp [on Mars] not because a river carved through them over millions of years, but because the wind blew against them for billions of years – the ultimate in gradualism."
- 3 The belief that change ought to be brought about in small, discrete increments rather than in abrupt strokes such as revolutions or uprisings. countable, uncountable
Synonyms
All synonyms chernomyrdinconversiondescriptive adjective of changeextremismgradual cultural system changegradual evolution
Antonyms
Example
"Given enough time, the logic goes, water can cleave solid rock and mountains can be reduced to plains. This "gradualism" now underpins modern geologic thought. ... Maybe we'll find evidence that the rock layers are exposed on the flanks of Mount Sharp [on Mars] not because a river carved through them over millions of years, but because the wind blew against them for billions of years – the ultimate in gradualism."
Common questions
What is a synonym for "gradualism"?
Common synonyms include: chernomyrdin, conversion, descriptive adjective of change, extremism, gradual cultural system change, gradual evolution.
How do you use "gradualism" in a sentence?
Given enough time, the logic goes, water can cleave solid rock and mountains can be reduced to plains. This "gradualism" now underpins modern geologic thought. ... Maybe we'll find evidence that the rock layers are exposed on the flanks of Mount Sharp [on Mars] not because a river carved through them over millions of years, but because the wind blew against them for billions of years – the ultimate in gradualism.
Etymology
From gradual + -ism.