"Gradatory" is a word with a tricky spelling. Its pronunciation, according to the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA), is [ˈɡrædətɔːri]. Notice that the "t" sound in the middle of the word is pronounced as a "d." This is because of a process called intervocalic flapping, where sounds between two vowels get softened in American English. Therefore, the word is spelled with a "t" but pronounced with a "d" sound. This word means arranged or progressing by degrees, and is commonly used in academic settings.
Gradatory is an adjective that describes an action or process that occurs in successive stages or steps, gradually progressing from one level to another. It can also refer to something that is arranged or ordered in a series of gradual steps or degrees.
When used in the context of a process or action, gradatory implies a gradual or incremental progression. It suggests that the process is not abrupt but happens gradually, step by step, with each stage building upon the previous one. For example, in a gradatory learning process, a student acquires knowledge or skills gradually, starting from basic concepts and then moving on to more complex ones.
Additionally, when applied to an arrangement or order, gradatory signifies a sequential organization that progresses in a gradual manner. This can be seen in gradatory scales used for measuring or assessing certain qualities or characteristics, where varying degrees or levels are arranged in a hierarchical or graded manner.
In summary, "gradatory" is an adjective that conveys the idea of gradual progression, either in terms of a process or action that occurs in stages or in the way something is arranged or ordered. It implies an incremental advancement, where each step or degree follows logically from the previous one, contributing to an overall progression.
The steps from the cloisters into the church; a proceeding step by step.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "gradatory" comes from the Latin word "gradus", meaning "step" or "degree". The suffix "-tory" is derived from the Latin suffix "-tōrius", which denotes a place or instrument for a particular purpose. Thus, "gradatory" refers to something that is related to steps or degrees.