Select the correct English meaning of the French expression given below.

'au fur et à mesure'

Correct Answer: Gradually

Explanation:

The French expression 'au fur et à mesure' is a common idiomatic phrase used to describe actions, processes, or events that take place progressively over time.

Breakdown of the Expression:
- Historically, the word 'fur' comes from Old French meaning "rate" or "proportion" (derived from Latin forum).
- 'mesure' translates directly to "measure".
- Combined in modern French, 'au fur et à mesure' literally means "in proportion and in measure", which translates into English as "gradually", "bit by bit", or "as one goes along".

Analysis of Other Options:
- At the last moment: In French, this is expressed as 'au dernier moment'.
- All at once: In French, this is expressed as 'tout d'un coup' or 'tout à la fois'.
- Without warning: In French, this is expressed as 'sans préavis' or 'sans avertissement'.

Therefore, the correct English meaning of 'au fur et à mesure' is Gradually.