steadily

Everyday

1. Steadily means in a slow, even and regular way, without stopping or sudden changes. tree →
2. Steadily can mean firmly and calmly, without shaking, like looking at someone steadily. tree →

In the lessons

In maths and science, a number or amount that grows steadily goes up by about the same amount each time, making a straight line on a graph. In everyday life, rain falls steadily or a runner runs steadily. In stories, «the tortoise walked steadily on» and won the race.

Examples

• The tortoise walked steadily and won the race. tree →
• The rain fell steadily all afternoon. tree →
• The plant grew steadily taller each week. tree →
• Her reading has improved steadily this year. tree →
• Hold the glass steadily so it doesn't spill. tree →
• The temperature rose steadily during the morning. tree →
• The queue moved forward steadily. tree →
• And Mowgli looked at him steadily between the eyes. tree →

Note

Adverb from steady + -ly (y changes to i: steadily). On a graph, «steadily» means an even slope; «sharply» means a steep, sudden change. Steadily is about being regular, not necessarily fast.