Cumulative

usgb/ˈkjuːmjəleɪtɪv/
adjective

Increasing or getting bigger by adding to it bit by bit over time.

Her cumulative knowledge improved after reading a book every week for a year.
Visual representation of "cumulative" - Increasing or getting bigger by adding to it bit by bit over time.

Often appears as...

  • cumulative effect
  • cumulative total

Usage tips

Academic

Definition 1 of 3
Visual representation of "cumulative"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Time Importance

Stresses that growth or change happens gradually over time.

Illustration for Time Importance
Developing a talent for music has a cumulative effect with consistent practice.
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Continuous Addition

Emphasizes the ongoing process of adding or increasing.

Illustration for Continuous Addition
Eating healthy has a cumulative benefit for your well-being.
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Not Instantaneous

Clarifies that results are not immediate, but build up over time.

Illustration for Not Instantaneous
The cumulative impact of studying daily boosted her grades.
Visual representation of the word "Cumulative"

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