progresivo
“progresivo” means “progressive” in Spanish (happening or developing gradually or in stages).
progressive
Also: gradual, increasing
📝 In Action
El aprendizaje de un idioma es un proceso progresivo.
A2Learning a language is a progressive process.
Hubo un aumento progresivo en los precios durante el invierno.
B1There was a gradual increase in prices during the winter.
La empresa implementó un sistema de trabajo progresivo.
B2The company implemented a progressive work system.
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: progresivo
Question 1 of 3
Which of these describes something that happens 'poco a poco' (little by little)?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin word 'progressivus', which comes from 'progredi' (to go forward). This is built from 'pro-' (forward) and 'gradus' (a step).
First recorded: 17th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'progresivo' the same as 'gradual'?
Yes, in many cases they are interchangeable. However, 'progresivo' often implies that the change is moving forward toward a goal or result, whereas 'gradual' simply means slow and steady.
Can I use 'progresivo' for grammar, like 'progressive tenses'?
Yes! In Spanish grammar, continuous actions (like 'I am eating') are often called 'tiempos progresivos' because they show an action that is currently in progress.
Does 'progresivo' always mean something is getting better?
Not necessarily. It just means it's advancing in stages. A 'deterioro progresivo' means something is steadily getting worse.