Explanation
The stepwise arrangement of expressions or thoughts in increasing or decreasing intensity. It makes difference perceptible as movement along a scale and creates direction, expectation, and emphasis.
Example
He whispered, spoke, called, shouted.
Counterexample
Merely mentioning “Gradation” without the described function is not a sufficient example.
Distinction
Climax is the ascending form of gradation; gradation may also descend.
Effect on thought and perception
It makes difference perceptible as movement along a scale and creates direction, expectation, and emphasis.
Resonance
In the atlas, Gradation closes 1 previously unresolved reference line(s) and opens controlled paths of thought.
Etymology
Technical core term; individual etymological review pending
Provenance
ATLAS 241 residual-case triage → profile candidate 241-A → source and neighbourhood cross-check → ATLAS 242
Cite this entry
Reich, Michael (Hrsg./ed.): „Gradation“. Atlas der Sprache, AT-CORE-242-027. ATLAS 251, data model 1.6.0. https://atlasoflanguage.com/concept/AT-CORE-242-027The address remains stable; editorial content may evolve. A verified modification date per entry is not yet available. Include your access date for precise references.