rhizoverbBeta
DictionarygradationGradual progression
noun

gradation

gruh-DAY-shuhn/ɡrəˈdeɪʃn/

A gradual progression through degrees or levels.

The paint chips show a gradation from very pale blue to deep blue.

Seven equal paint sample chips arranged neatly in a row progress in small distinct stages from very pale blue to deep blue; each chip visibly a physical painted paper rectangle, no words or numbers.
Etymology
gradLatinto walk, go, step
+ationLatinaction or process

The image is an ascent by steps: each step contributes to an ordered progression. Gradation applies that stepwise pattern to changes through successive degrees.

In context

ArtSpeaks Studio by Kay Byfield6:22
so there's a gradation from large to small gradation is used in so much of visual art because it is so pleasurable people enjoy seeing the gradual change of an element from one extreme to the other
Gradation

More examples

  • The exercises follow a gradual gradation from easy to difficult.
  • The singer uses subtle gradations in volume to build tension.
  • The fabric displays a delicate gradation of color.

Forms

gradation · gradations

gradual adjective — Changing or developing in small steps.

Similar words

progression
Emphasizes movement through stages, not necessarily small, smooth changes.
transition
Emphasizes change between states rather than a succession of degrees.