Progressively: meaning, definitions and examples

Use this word to describe something that happens in stages or steps over time, with an emphasis on improvement or forward movement.

• The company has been progressively increasing its market share.
• Her health has been progressively improving after the surgery.

Ideal for describing changes that happen slowly or step-by-step over a long period. It often implies a smooth and natural process.

• The weather is gradually getting warmer as we move into spring.
• His hair gradually turned grey over the years.

This word is good for describing something that happens at a consistent, reliable pace without sudden changes.

• She has been steadily working on her novel every day for the past year.
• The economy has been steadily growing.

Best used when referring to changes that happen in small, often measurable, steps or increments.

• The product's features are being incrementally updated with each release.
• We need to save money incrementally to reach our financial goal.

Use 'progressively' when describing a process or development that happens step by step or in stages.

• The disease gets progressively worse over time
• The company has been implementing changes progressively

Use 'increasingly' to discuss something that is becoming more and more over time.

• People are becoming increasingly aware of the environmental issues
• The tasks are getting increasingly complex

Use 'gradually' when referring to a slow and steady process of change or development.

• The water in the lake rose gradually after the rain
• He gradually became more confident in his new role

Choose 'continuously' to describe something that happens without stopping or without interruption.

• The machine has been running continuously for 24 hours
• She studied continuously for the whole week