What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
acclivity
Example
The hikers struggled up the acclivity, gasping for breath. [acclivity: noun]
Example
The road had a sharp acclivity that made it difficult for the car to climb. [acclivity: adjective]
gradient
Example
The gradient of the hill was gentle, making it easy to climb. [gradient: noun]
Example
The temperature gradient decreased as we climbed higher into the mountains. [gradient: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Gradient is more commonly used than acclivity in everyday language, especially in scientific or technical contexts. Acclivity is less common and is mostly used in literary or poetic contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between acclivity and gradient?
Gradient is more formal than acclivity, as it is more commonly used in technical or scientific writing. However, both words can be used in formal or informal contexts depending on the context and audience.
