Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the given word.

Gradual

Abrupt

The most appropriate antonym of the word gradual is abrupt.

• Gradual means "happening or changing slowly and in a step-by-step manner."
• Abrupt means "happening or done suddenly and unexpectedly."

The other words do not have the opposite meaning of gradual.

• Gentle means "kind, mild, or tender."
• Regular means "happening or done at regular intervals."
• Slow means "not fast."