Through the 20th century, the gradual liberalization of American sexual mores led to the elimination of sodomy laws in most states.

Like Britain, a gradual liberalization of trade laws as part of the free trade movement meant less smuggling.

By then Mao Zedong's death had brought a gradual liberalization that enabled a small number of Chinese to study abroad.

But over the last two years there has been a gradual liberalization, with academic bodies resuming internal decision-making roles.

After its failure, a policy of gradual liberalization was followed.

Many Chinese say that a trend toward gradual liberalization has been arrested since the summer.

Rather than an immediate liberalization, he proposes a gradual liberalization.

The general agreement to be approved later will lead to a gradual liberalization of markets on both sides.

Officials say the predominant view in the Administration favors a gradual liberalization in trade.

Today's changes continue the gradual liberalization of France's financial markets.