LITTLE BY LITTLE Synonyms: 22 Similar and Opposite Words

little by little

adverb

Definition of little by little

as in gradually

by small steps or amounts little by little, we pieced together the jigsaw puzzle

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of little by little Work on it all summer, adding to it little by little. — Parents, 11 June 2026 Practice is super important to build the pace little by little. — Madeline Coleman, New York Times, 4 June 2026 Higher education officials have watched their pool of typical applicants dwindle little by little. — Elizabeth Hernandez, Denver Post, 31 May 2026 Start buying items little by little ahead of time. — Michelle Marchante updated May 27, Miami Herald, 27 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for little by little

Recent Examples of Synonyms for little by little

gradually

Adverb

As his relationships deepened and demand for the wines grew, what had started as a hobby gradually became a full-time pursuit.

— Yuri Shima, Forbes.com, 27 July 2026
However, as the mines depleted and resources shifted, the town was gradually abandoned, leaving behind an eerie stillness.

— Kieron Marchese, Architectural Digest, 27 July 2026

Definition of gradually

Browse Nearby Words

little bitty

little by little

little guy

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“Little by little.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/little%20by%20little. Accessed 1 Aug. 2026.

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Synonyms of little by little

adverb

Example Sentences

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