Grow is an effect where an element expands in size, often to draw attention or indicate that it has become more important in the interface. It transforms scale into a form of emphasis, making interactions feel more dynamic and alive. Grow works because it mimics real-world physics, where objects appear larger as they come closer, giving the gesture a sense of presence and immediacy.
The animation for grow should be smooth and proportional, with easing that prevents the expansion from feeling abrupt. A gentle acceleration at the start and a soft deceleration at the end can make the motion feel more natural. Pairing the size change with subtle opacity, shadow, or depth adjustments enhances the illusion of growth without overwhelming the user.
Grow is often used for buttons when pressed, cards being highlighted, or key actions being promoted. It can also guide users through progressive disclosure, where elements expand to reveal more content. The effect is most effective when it reinforces hierarchy and clarity, ensuring that the user knows exactly what has gained focus.
To refine the grow effect, designers can control scale carefully to avoid distortion or loss of readability. Complementary animations like fading or color transitions can make the growth feel integrated rather than isolated. Sound or haptic feedback can add a tactile dimension, making the change feel more physical.
Variations include micro-grows for subtle emphasis, full expansions that transition into detailed views, and looping grow-shrink patterns that create a pulsing effect. With careful motion design, grow can turn a simple size adjustment into a compelling interaction that captures attention and enhances flow.
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