gradual / stealthy
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gradual
Developing or spreading slowly, inconspicuously, and gradually. The term is often used for processes or changes that are barely noticed at first.
Es war ein schleichender Prozess, bis die Inflation für alle spürbar wurde.
It was a gradual process until inflation became noticeable to everyone.
stealthy
Moving quietly, slowly, and carefully so as not to be heard or seen.
Mit schleichenden Schritten näherte sich der Dieb dem offenen Fenster.
With stealthy steps, the thief approached the open window.
'Schleichend' is the present participle of the verb 'schleichen' (to move quietly and slowly). The meanings of the adjective are derived directly from this verb: either a concrete slow movement or a figurative, slow process.
Die Katze nähert sich schleichend der Maus.
The cat approaches the mouse stealthily.
In the figurative meaning, 'schleichend' is often combined with negative, abstract processes. Typical collocations are 'ein schleichender Prozess' (a gradual process), 'eine schleichende Gefahr' (a creeping danger), or 'schleichendes Gift' (slow-acting poison).
Der Vertrauensverlust war ein schleichender Prozess über viele Monate.
The loss of trust was a gradual process over many months.
You can recognize the meaning from the noun: If 'schleichend' refers to a concrete movement, e.g. 'Schritte' (steps) or 'Gang' (gait), the literal meaning is intended. If it refers to an abstract term, e.g. 'Prozess' (process) or 'Veränderung' (change), the figurative meaning is intended.
Er verließ den Raum mit schleichenden Schritten.
He left the room with stealthy steps.
'Schleichend' can also be used as an adverb to describe a verb. It then remains unchanged in the sentence and describes how an action happens.
Die Nacht kam schleichend über das Tal.
Night came gradually over the valley.
secret
Heimlich emphasizes that a movement or action is meant to remain hidden. Schleichend, by contrast, describes especially the slow, quiet, and cautious way of moving. Use heimlich when secrecy is planned and schleichend when the manner of movement itself is the focus.
Er ging schleichend aus dem Zimmer, um seine Eltern nicht zu wecken.
He crept out of the room so as not to wake his parents.
Er ging heimlich aus dem Zimmer, ohne dass seine Eltern davon wussten.
He left the room secretly without his parents knowing.
