Select the most appropriate antonym of the word.

GRADUAL

Rapid

The most appropriate antonym of the word gradual is rapid.

• Gradual means "happening or developing slowly and in stages."
• Rapid means "happening or moving very quickly."

The other words do not have the same meaning as gradual, so they are not its antonyms.

• Moderate means "neither too great nor too small."
• Measured means "done or carried out with care and thought."
• Slow means "moving or happening at a relatively slow pace."