as in gradual
proceeding or changing by steps or degrees
a piecemeal attempt to remedy the traffic congestion
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
1
as in gradually
by small steps or amounts
remodeled their house piecemeal because of budgetary constraints
Synonyms & Similar Words
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 piecemeal
Richard McGahey, Forbes.com, 3 June 2025
Before the new legislation, there had been some piecemeal changes and efforts at reform.
—Jennifer Smith Richards, ProPublica, 28 May 2025
Michael Schneider, Variety, 22 May 2025
Confirmation of the whereabouts of deportees has been piecemeal, with advocacy groups, lawyers and news organizations sporadically releasing names and locations based on available information.
—Megan Ulu-Lani Boyanton, Denver Post, 15 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for piecemeal
Adjective
But compared to some other cities, New York’s efforts are piecemeal and uncoordinated.
—Richard McGahey, Forbes.com, 3 June 2025
Before the new legislation, there had been some piecemeal changes and efforts at reform.
—Jennifer Smith Richards, ProPublica, 28 May 2025
Adverb
Will the show be sold globally to one streamer, or piecemeal to outlets in the U.S. and internationally?
—Michael Schneider, Variety, 22 May 2025
Confirmation of the whereabouts of deportees has been piecemeal, with advocacy groups, lawyers and news organizations sporadically releasing names and locations based on available information.
—Megan Ulu-Lani Boyanton, Denver Post, 15 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for piecemeal
Recent Examples of Synonyms for piecemeal
Adjective
-
With the blender/mixer running, add the oil in a gradual, steady stream until the mixture is smooth and thickened.—
Josh Miller,
Southern Living,
14 June 2025
-
Over the decades, that theme continued through gradual revisions including a 1959 renovation and more recent efforts.—
Caron Golden,
San Diego Union-Tribune,
14 June 2025
Adverb
-
Season two saw Valerie cast in an HBO project about the sitcom writer who made her life hell in season one, earning widespread acclaim professionally even as her personal life was falling apart.—
Rick Porter,
HollywoodReporter,
27 June 2025
-
Hammond’s efforts to get Jurassic Park off the ground have fallen apart, leaving his company, InGen, in dire financial straits.—
Will Harris,
EW.com,
27 June 2025
Cite this Entry
“Piecemeal.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/piecemeal. Accessed 30 Jun. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share