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Successively Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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successively

[səkˈsɛsɪvli ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adverb

in a sequence

In a successive manner; following one after the other without interruption.

Synonyms

consecutively, continuously, sequentially.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
successively

Used when events happen one after another in a specific order, implying a sequence without interruptions.

  • The team won five games successively
sequentially

Used when things are organized or arranged in a specific order that follows a logical sequence.

  • The steps should be followed sequentially to complete the process
consecutively

Employed to describe events occurring one after the other without gaps, often used for numbering or ordering.

  • He worked for seven days consecutively
continuously

Applied to actions or events occurring without any interruptions over a period of time.

  • The machines operated continuously for 48 hours

Examples of usage

  • The numbers are arranged successively from left to right.
  • She completed the tasks successively, one after another.
  • The team scored three goals successively in the final minutes of the game.
Context #2 | Adverb

increasing order

In an increasing or cumulative manner.

Synonyms

gradually, progressively, steadily.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
successively

The word 'successively' should not appear twice in the list. It has already been defined.
progressively

Use 'progressively' to describe something that happens in steps or stages, often improving or increasing in intensity or degree.

  • The exercises became progressively harder.
  • He took on progressively more responsibility at work.
gradually

Choose 'gradually' to describe a process that happens slowly over time without abrupt changes.

  • The temperature gradually increased over the week.
  • She gradually improved her skills through practice.
steadily

Choose 'steadily' to describe a continuous and consistent process without unexpected changes.

  • The light grew steadily brighter.
  • She worked steadily throughout the night.

Examples of usage

  • The company's revenue has been growing successively over the past few years.
  • The temperature has been rising successively each day this week.
  • He has won the championship successively for the past three years.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Mathematics

  • In mathematics, successively can describe operations performed in a sequence, like adding or multiplying numbers.
  • Series and sequences often use this concept to illustrate patterns, where terms follow one after the other.
  • Geometric sequences show how numbers grow 'successively', following a constant ratio.

Psychology

  • Research shows that learning is often most effective when information is presented successively rather than all at once.
  • Cognitive psychology emphasizes the importance of sequential learning, where each step builds on the last.
  • Successive reinforcement in behavioral psychology can help in habit formation by gradually rewarding positive behaviors.

Pop Culture

  • Many movie franchises utilize a successive narrative structure, where each film builds on the story from the previous one.
  • In music, many songs follow a successive chord progression, making them catchy and easy to follow.
  • Reality TV shows often feature challenges that must be completed successively to build suspense.

Nature

  • In ecology, species may evolve successively, with each generation adapting to its environment over vast periods.
  • Growth rings in trees can show successive years of growth, revealing the health and age of the tree.
  • The life cycle of many organisms is characterized by successive stages, from embryo to adult.

Origin of 'successively'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'successively' comes from the Latin word 'successivus,' meaning 'following after'.
  • It has been used in the English language since the late 15th century, evolving from the Latin forms used in literature.
  • Related words include 'success' and 'succeed,' which also focus on the idea of following or coming after.

The word 'successively' is derived from the Latin word 'successivus', which means 'following in order'. The concept of succession has been present in various fields such as mathematics, science, and literature. The term is commonly used to describe a series of events or actions that occur one after another in a chronological or progressive manner.

See also: successes, successful, successfully, succession, successive, successor, successors, unsuccess, unsuccessful, unsuccessfully.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,474 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.