piecemeal 1 of 2

as in gradual
proceeding or changing by steps or degrees a piecemeal attempt to remedy the traffic congestion

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piecemeal

2 of 2

adverb

1
2
as in apart
into parts or pieces one well-aimed blow ripped the piñata piecemeal

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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
Adjective
The lesson for enterprise leaders is clear: major digital transformations can no longer succeed through piecemeal outsourcing or isolated projects. Steve McDowell, Forbes.com, 21 July 2025 But there is no shortage of promising ideas, and there are successful, albeit piecemeal, efforts all over the country. Shelley Stewart Iii, Forbes.com, 30 June 2025
Adverb
Presidential ethics are too important to be addressed piecemeal. MSNBC Newsweek, 17 July 2025 Though the White House originally attempted sweeping, universal tariffs—including a 10% blanket rate—the policy has grown more piecemeal due to both legal challenges and strategic considerations. Eleanor Pringle, Fortune, 17 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for piecemeal
Recent Examples of Synonyms for piecemeal
Adjective
  • For months, John was confined to his bed and was off work for six months, before making a gradual return to teaching in September 2022.
    Alyce Collins, MSNBC Newsweek, 15 Aug. 2025
  • The floodwaters, which broke through a dam of glacial ice, are an example of how gradual shifts to the climate are sometimes punctuated by sudden drama that can rapidly reshape a landscape.
    Evan Bush, NBC news, 14 Aug. 2025
Adverb
  • While that may ultimately ring true, the hangover—running into the Club World Cup where a rampant Paris Saint-Germain tore Real apart in the semifinals—is also a worthwhile guide.
    Henry Flynn, Forbes.com, 14 Aug. 2025
  • What sets me apart is my pragmatic approach combined with a progressive vision and professional experience.
    Charlotte Observer, Charlotte Observer, 14 Aug. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Piecemeal.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/piecemeal. Accessed 21 Aug. 2025.

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