Geleidelijk
Example: De veranderingen in het landschap gebeurden geleidelijk over eeuwen.
Definition
"Geleidelijk" is an adverb describing a process or change that occurs slowly and steadily over a period of time, without sudden or abrupt shifts. It emphasizes a smooth progression, as in the example phrase where changes in the landscape happened gradually over centuries.
Etymology
The Dutch word "geleidelijk" originates from the combination of "geleide," meaning 'guided,' and the suffix "-lijk," which is similar to '-ly' in English. It literally suggests something done in a guided or step-by-step manner. Did you know? Its roots reflect the idea of careful, directed progression, perfectly matching its meaning of gradual change.
Learn to use this word actively
"Geleidelijk" appears in the Vocaplus list "Dutch - History - (B2) - set 1", containing 105 commonly used words.
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