step-by-step

adjective or adverb

ˌstep-bī-ˈstep 

: marked by successive degrees usually of limited extent : gradual

Synonyms of step-by-step

• gradual

Examples of step-by-step in a Sentence

the incessant step-by-step advance of the enemy's troops could no longer be resisted

Recent Examples on the Web

Then came the how-to guides, in posts filled with menu combinations and step-by-step explainers on how to navigate Chipotle’s build-your-own ordering system. — Jenny Lee, CNBC, 9 Sep. 2026

Ahead, Choi and Hall take us through a step-by-step, skincare regimen showing how to get the glass skin look—plus the best products to shop loved by experts and editors alike. — Kiana Murden, Vogue, 8 Sep. 2026

Building an adaptive enterprise requires step-by-step diagnostic discipline. — Natalie Grabher, Forbes.com, 1 Sep. 2026

Our step-by-step guide shows you how to make quick work of dicing the tear-jerking bulb. — Sarah Martens, Better Homes & Gardens, 1 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1581, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for step-by-step

• multistep
• overstep
• bicep
• doorstep
• footstep
• instep
• misstep
• sidestep
• cep
• hep
• pep
• prep

Kids Definition

step-by-step

adjective

ˌstep-bī-ˈstep

: gradual