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Gradation - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Gradation refers to a gradual change or progression through small, subtle stages, such as shades of color, levels of intensity, or steps in a process. It implies a smooth transition from one state to another.

gradation

/ɡrəˈdeɪʃən/ /ɡrəˈdeɪʃən/

Definition:

A gradual change from one stage, level, or shade to another.

Synonyms:

progression, sequence, scale, spectrum

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

abruptness, discontinuity

Common Collocations:

color gradation, subtle gradation, tonal gradation

Derivatives:

gradational, gradationally

Usage Tips:

Use "gradation" to describe subtle transitions in color, sound, or quality over stages.

Common Phrases:

shades of gradation, fine gradation, smooth gradation

Etymology:

From Latin "gradatio," meaning "ascent by steps," derived from "gradus" (step).

Examples:

  • 1. The artist used a beautiful gradation of blue in the sky.
  • 2. Her voice had a soft gradation from loud to whisper.
  • 3. The fabric showed a subtle gradation from light to dark purple.
  • 4. We studied the gradation of tones in the musical piece.

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