progressivement

Progressivement is a French adverb meaning “in a gradual or progressive manner.” It describes actions, changes, or developments that occur in successive, often small steps rather than abruptly. The term conveys a sense of steady, measured progression over time.

Etymology: Progressivement is derived from the adjective progressif with the suffix -ment, linked to the verb progresser. The root ultimately traces to Latin progressivus. In contemporary French, the adverb is neutral and widely used in both spoken and written language.

Usage: It is commonly used in formal and neutral registers, including journalism, science, medicine, and education, as well as everyday speech. It can accompany verbs such as s'améliorer, se développer, diminuer, augmenter, or tolérer. Examples: La production a augmenté progressivement au cours du trimestre. Le patient a toléré le traitement progressivement pour minimiser les effets secondaires. Le problème s’est aggravé progressivement si rien n’est fait.

See also: Graduellement, peu à peu. Translation: in English, progressively or gradually.