The word “gradation” can carry a different semantic load depending on the context in which it is used. This term can be used in Russian (as a stylistic figure), in sociology (as an age component). In addition, there is such a thing as “color gradation”. It is used in various computer programs or art. Also, gradation can describe the quality of goods.
Therefore, depending on what the word gradation is used for (examples are given above), we can talk about completely different things.
General concept. This word itself is taken from the Latin language and translates as "gradual transition", "increase". Graduation is a non-jump-like movement of an attribute or property, as well as successive stages or steps.
Consider the meaning of this word in more detail.
Color gradation. Examples. These are steps of any color, which are arranged in a certain order, or it is a set of different shades from dark to light and vice versa. Rainbow is the most striking example of gradation of color. Here is the transition of primary colors from one to another.
Grading of the quality of goods is a combination of categories, classes or varieties of various goods. You can judge such product qualities as suitability for use or usefulness. An example of a gradation of quality are tea varieties or trays with eggs of different varieties: the highest, first and second. Also, in the railway or aviation sector, tickets are offered: reserved seat, coupe, first class; business or economy class.
In business, this term can be used when distributing goods according to criteria: quality, fixed-term contracts, etc. This greatly simplifies the trading procedure.
Russian language and graduation. Examples. Successive weakening or strengthening in the expression is called a stylistic figure in the Russian language and literature. Previously, it was also called "menopause." Recently, however, she was given a different name - gradation. Example: "I ask you, I beg you, I beg." Now literary scholars ascribe climax to the varieties of gradation. But the difference in them is so subtle that for "ordinary" people it is barely perceptible.
Age gradation. Examples. This concept has found its application in cultural studies and sociology. Age gradation is a system that exists in any society. Under this system, people of the same age group have equal duties and rights. Also, this term can be used in relation to animals in biology. A common example is puppies and older dogs. Here, the age gradation is quite pronounced. Moreover, the breed of dogs does not matter. The term “age grade” is also used in higher education. In this case, people are divided into groups for some specific purposes within the institution.
Thus, gradation is a very versatile concept, but is generally understood in the same way - this is the gradual transition of some properties to others or the breakdown of something into stages, steps.
