Definition of step-by-stepnext
as in gradual
proceeding or changing by steps or degrees the incessant step-by-step advance of the enemy's troops could no longer be resisted

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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 step-by-step If your showerhead can be removed, here's how to clean it step-by-step. Ashlyn Needham, Southern Living, 15 May 2026 The Immigrant Justice Lab offers step-by-step guidance in English and Spanish on how to prepare for a bond hearing. Dave Boucher, Freep.com, 14 May 2026 Here’s a step-by-step breakdown. Allison Palmer, Miami Herald, 13 May 2026 Our step-by-step guide to elegant cantaloupe wedges and snackable cubes. Janet McCracken, Bon Appetit Magazine, 12 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for step-by-step
Recent Examples of Synonyms for step-by-step
gradual
Adjective
  • There was not a gradual build to this moment, allowing Rai to adjust over time to a changing reality.
    Gabby Herzig, New York Times, 18 May 2026
  • The study authors argue that humans became strongly right-handed through a gradual evolutionary process tied to bipedalism and brain expansion rather than a single genetic switch.
    Rupendra Brahambhatt, Interesting Engineering, 16 May 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Step-by-step.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/step-by-step. Accessed 20 May. 2026.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster