1. The principle or policy of achieving change or reform gradually rather than suddenly or by force
The government adopted gradualism as its approach to economic reform.
O governo adotou o gradualismo como sua abordagem para a reforma econômica.
2. In evolutionary biology, the theory that evolution occurs through small, continuous changes over long periods rather than sudden jumps
Gradualism contrasts with punctuated equilibrium in evolutionary theory.
O gradualismo contrasta com o equilíbrio pontuado na teoria evolutiva.
3. In political or social contexts, the belief in making progress through incremental steps rather than radical transformation
Some critics argue that gradualism delays necessary social change.
Alguns críticos argumentam que o gradualismo retarda mudanças sociais necessárias.