The best replacement for gradient is slope.

The best alternatives to gradient are rated as following:
★★★★★  slope
★★★★  polarized
★★★★  isocratic elution
★★★  divergence
★★  ombre
★★  isocratic
★★  gradient
★★  derivative
★  isocratic hplc
★  partial derivative
★  polarized sunglasses
★  electrical gradient
★  total derivative
★  gradation
  concentration gradient
  step gradient
  hydraulic gradient
  net climb gradient
  vertical pressure gradient
  shear stress
  geostrophic wind
  jacobian
  against a concentration gradient

Your alternative for gradient is not listed? Suggest!
Speaking about gradient, one probably shouldn't forget about background image.

Other search terms related to gradient and their ratings are:
★★★★★ background image
★★★★ paint.net
★★ depth
★ image background
★ gradient
You have in mind a companion for gradient and it is not yet here? Propose!



Google Trends

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gradient
slope
polarized