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

The American Red Cross offers an online Cat and Dog First Aid course with step-by-step demonstrations, photos, and videos covering choking, CPR, and other emergencies. — Cathy M. Rosenthal, Chicago Tribune, 1 Aug. 2026

The course is built to walk parents step-by-step through mastering budget-busting expenses like diapers, wipes, formula, and groceries while building a supportive community of like-minded moms. — Lauren Brown West-Rosenthal, Parents, 31 July 2026

Their work becomes less about managing workflows step-by-step and more about defining intent, setting constraints and shaping outcomes. — Asanka Abeysinghe, Forbes.com, 31 July 2026

See our step-by-step guide to rolling over a 401(k) for how that works. — USA Today, 24 July 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