WordValegradation
a gradual change in degree
In more detail
1. (noun) a series of small, gradual changes or steps from one level or state to another
2. (noun) the act or process of arranging things in order by size, amount, or degree
Examples
- The painting shows a gradation of color from dark blue at the top to light blue at the bottom.
- The teacher used gradation in the difficulty of the test questions, starting with easy ones and ending with hard ones.
How to use gradation
Gradation refers to a continuous range of small incremental differences rather than distinct, separate categories. It is used in both abstract contexts (like gradations in tone or opinion) and concrete ones (like gradations in color or size). The term emphasizes smoothness and imperceptibility of transitions, distinguishing it from abrupt shifts.
Common phrases
- fine gradation
- color gradation
- gradation of sizes
- gradation in shades
- smooth gradation
Synonyms
progression · sequence · scale · spectrum · transition
Opposites
leap · jump · discontinuity
Word family
grade · gradable · gradually · gradient
A common mistake
Learners often confuse gradation with graduation; gradation means arrangement in a series of steps, while graduation refers to the completion of a course of study or a division into grades or levels.
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