However, depending on the context, you could use several verbs to express the idea of gradual change:
* Gradual increase/decrease: Rise, fall, climb, descend, grow, shrink, expand, contract, augment, diminish
* Gradual process: Develop, evolve, progress, transform, mature, change, shift, alter, modify
* Gradual action: Creep, slide, drift, glide, inch, saunter, meander, progress
For example:
* The temperature gradually increased throughout the day. (increased conveys a gradual change)
* The company gradually evolved into a global powerhouse. (evolved indicates a slow process of transformation)
* She gradually inched her way towards the edge of the cliff. (inched suggests a slow, deliberate movement)
The best verb to use will depend on the specific meaning you want to convey.