Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'gradually'

English Word: gradually

Key Russian Translations:

• постепенно /pɐˈstʲepʲɪnʲə/ - [Formal, Informal]

Frequency: Medium (This adverb is commonly used in everyday Russian to describe processes, but not as frequent as basic connectors like "и" or "но").

Difficulty: B1 (Intermediate, based on CEFR; learners at this level should grasp its usage in context, though mastering pronunciation may require practice).

Pronunciation (Russian):

постепенно: /pɐˈstʲepʲɪnʲə/

Note on постепенно: The stress falls on the third syllable ("ste"), which is a common challenge for English speakers due to differing stress patterns in Russian. Pronounce it with a soft 't' sound.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

Meaning: In a gradual way, step by step, without sudden changes.

Translation(s) & Context:

• постепенно - Used in both formal and informal contexts to describe ongoing processes, such as changes over time in narratives, instructions, or descriptions.

Usage Examples:

• Вода постепенно нагревается до кипения.

  The water is heating up gradually to boiling point.

• Он постепенно осваивает новый язык.

  He is gradually mastering the new language.

• Погода постепенно улучшается весной.

  The weather gradually improves in the spring.

• Дети постепенно учатся читать и писать.

  Children gradually learn to read and write.

• Экономика страны постепенно восстанавливается после кризиса.

  The country's economy is gradually recovering after the crisis.

Russian Forms/Inflections:

постепенно is an adverb in Russian and does not undergo inflection for gender, number, case, or tense. It remains unchanged in all contexts, which is typical for many Russian adverbs derived from adjectives. For example:

Note: Unlike verbs or nouns, adverbs like this do not require conjugation or declension, making it straightforward for learners.

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms:
  • мало-помалу (step by step, often used in informal contexts for very slow progression)
  • шаг за шагом (step by step, emphasizing sequential actions; has a more metaphorical connotation)
• Antonyms:
  • вдруг (suddenly, implying abrupt change)
  • моментально (instantly, for immediate actions)

Related Phrases:

• постепенное развитие - Gradual development (used in contexts like personal growth or economic progress).
• постепенно привыкать - To gradually get used to something (common in adaptation scenarios).
• шаг за шагом, но постепенно - Step by step, but gradually (a fixed phrase for methodical processes).

Usage Notes:

постепенно directly corresponds to the English "gradually" and is typically placed before the verb in a sentence to modify the action. It is versatile for both formal writing (e.g., academic papers) and informal speech (e.g., everyday conversations). Be mindful of context: in Russian, it often implies a natural, unforced progression, unlike more emphatic words. When choosing among translations, use постепенно for neutral descriptions; opt for synonyms like мало-помалу in casual settings. Grammatically, it doesn't affect verb conjugation.

Common Errors:

• Error: Confusing it with "медленно" (slowly), which implies speed rather than progression. Incorrect: "Он медленно учится" (implying slowness, not gradual learning). Correct: "Он постепенно учится" (emphasizing step-by-step improvement). Explanation: "медленно" focuses on pace, while "постепенно" highlights process.

• Error: Placing it at the end of the sentence, which sounds unnatural in Russian. Incorrect: "Учится он постепенно." Correct: "Он постепенно учится." Explanation: Adverbs like this usually precede the verb for better flow.

Cultural Notes:

In Russian culture, words like "постепенно" reflect a philosophical emphasis on patience and endurance, often seen in literature and proverbs (e.g., Russian folktales stress gradual effort in achieving goals). This aligns with the cultural value of "терпение" (patience), where quick changes are sometimes viewed skeptically.

Related Concepts:

• развитие (development)
• прогресс (progress)
• адаптация (adaptation)