English Reference
Adverb

steadily

adv. manner
B2 Upper Intermediate Oxford US /ˈstɛdəɫi/ UK /stˈɛdɪli/ steadi·ly

adv.happening in a smooth, gradual, and regular way without stopping. You use this to describe a change that stays at the same speed or level over time.

adv.in a regular, even, and continuous manner. Describes a process or movement that maintains a consistent pace or intensity without sudden fluctuations.


SIMPLE

The rain fell steadily all afternoon.

CONTEXTUAL

The company's profits have grown steadily over the last five years thanks to a loyal customer base.

COMPLEX

Despite the initial volatility of the market, the value of the currency began to rise steadily as investor confidence returned following the central bank's announcement.

Usage

Typically follows the verb it modifies or appears at the end of the clause.

Pitfall
The prices steadily are increasingThe prices are increasing steadily

Adverbs of manner like 'steadily' usually follow the main verb or the object rather than sitting between the subject and the auxiliary verb.

Usage steadily increase

Instead of producing similar flares on each return, they become steadily fainter.

ScienceDaily· 23 Aug 2026

In the midst of all that the 43-year-old folk icon was steadily working on building a beach home out on the far end of Long Island.

The Guardian· 20 Aug 2026

From steady + -ly.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated