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

Keep your laminate floors looking their best with this step-by-step guide. — Mary Catherine McAnnally Scott, Southern Living, 22 June 2026

Break down overwhelming objectives with step-by-step game plans. — Maressa Brown, Parents, 18 June 2026

Our step-by-step instructions walk you through making pâte à choux dough, essential for the crisp golden puffs. — Lynn Andriani, Martha Stewart, 19 June 2026

For more step-by-step help, check out our guides on how to free up iPhone storage, how to clean up your phone and how to transfer photos from your phone to a hard drive. — Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 27 June 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