1.
gradually; little by little; step by step
Indicates a gradual change or progression over time. Often used with verbs describing change of state.
段々と expresses gradual change over time. The particle と is often omitted in casual speech, giving 段々 alone.
Common patterns
- 段々（と）〜てくる: to gradually come to ~ (approaching the present)
- 段々（と）〜ていく: to gradually go on to ~ (moving away from the present)
- 段々（と）〜なる: to gradually become ~
Example pattern
段々と分かってきた (I gradually came to understand).