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
Then, follow the step-by-step method below.
—
Rae Ford, Martha Stewart, 17 Jan. 2026
While there are even loftier goals for the program than solely winning the conference – namely, a state championship – Morales adheres to a step-by-step approach to success.
—Justin Barrasso, Boston Herald, 17 Jan. 2026
The app provides real-time arrival information, service alerts, and step-by-step directions that reflect current conditions.
—Navdeep Kaur, Mercury News, 16 Jan. 2026
Starting small at first, eventually inching step-by-step to the biggest stages.
—Bailey Richards, PEOPLE, 14 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for step-by-step
Rae Ford, Martha Stewart, 17 Jan. 2026
While there are even loftier goals for the program than solely winning the conference – namely, a state championship – Morales adheres to a step-by-step approach to success.
—Justin Barrasso, Boston Herald, 17 Jan. 2026
The app provides real-time arrival information, service alerts, and step-by-step directions that reflect current conditions.
—Navdeep Kaur, Mercury News, 16 Jan. 2026
Starting small at first, eventually inching step-by-step to the biggest stages.
—Bailey Richards, PEOPLE, 14 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for step-by-step
Recent Examples of Synonyms for step-by-step
gradual
Adjective
-
This time around, her wavy lob is cut at a soft, gradual angle, so that the front dips only slightly longer than the back.—
Ariel Wodarcyk,
InStyle,
13 Jan. 2026
-
Through food rewards and gradual trust-building, the birds learn to travel in a crate and to sit on a perch and a glove during a program.—
Beth Lipoff,
Kansas City Star,
12 Jan. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Step-by-step.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/step-by-step. Accessed 29 Jan. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
