By degrees

usgb
adverb

Slowly and gradually.

He got better by degrees, day by day his health improved.
Visual representation of "by degrees" - Slowly and gradually.

Often appears as...

  • improve by degrees
  • appear by degrees
Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "by degrees"
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Subtle Progress

Use 'by degrees' to emphasize gradual, almost unnoticeable change or improvement.

Illustration for Subtle Progress
The days grew longer by degrees as summer approached.
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Non-Instantaneous

Implies that the change is not instant, but takes time and patience.

Illustration for Non-Instantaneous
Her fear subsided by degrees, allowing her to speak more confidently.
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Emotional Changes

'By degrees' can be used to describe changes in feelings or attitudes over time.

Illustration for Emotional Changes
He fell in love by degrees, his affection growing stronger every day.
Visual representation of the word "By degrees"

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