Definitions

step-by-step

ADJECTIVE

gradual

Synonyms

STRONGEST

piecemeal

WEAK

bit-by-bit by degrees continuous creeping even gentle gradational graduate moderate progressive regular slow steady successive unhurried

ADVERB

gradually and steadily

Synonyms

STRONG

bit by bit drop by drop gradually inch by inch little by little one by one piecemeal

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The civil complaint, while referencing some of the texts, lays out the alleged wrongdoing step by step.

From Los Angeles Times • May 12, 2026

In the meantime, incremental progress will be important, with missions focused on improving measurement capabilities step by step.

From Science Daily • Apr. 24, 2026

"Goodwill must be built up and mutual trust needs to be expanded, step by step, by both sides."

From Barron's • Apr. 7, 2026

"We will acclimatise them step by step, so that they do not experience too much stress," he added.

From BBC • Mar. 9, 2026

I continued to back away, step by step, not sure why I was doing it.

From "The Name of the Wind" by Patrick Rothfuss

step-by-step

Example Sentences

Related Words