STEP BY STEP Synonyms: 22 Similar and Opposite Words

step-by-step

adjective

ˌstep-bī-ˈstep

as in gradual

proceeding or changing by steps or degrees the incessant step-by-step advance of the enemy's troops could no longer be resisted

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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 step-by-step Additionally, the advanced imaging is helping cardiologists better understand a normal vs abnormal human heart and being used to probe the step-by-step development of gynecological disorders. —

Laura Baisas, Popular Science, 11 Mar. 2026 Google said that those agents can help with work such as drafting meeting notes, creating action items and breaking large projects into step-by-step plans. —

Mackenzie Sigalos, CNBC, 10 Mar. 2026 While the regular-season, co-champion women’s team has received a double bye through to Friday’s semifinals, the defending champion men will have to climb step-by-step through the bracket in the Big West Conference Tournament this week at Henderson, Nev. —

Bill Center, San Diego Union-Tribune, 8 Mar. 2026 Follow our step-by-step guide to create maximum volume with minimal effort. —

Fiona Embleton, Glamour, 6 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for step-by-step

Recent Examples of Synonyms for step-by-step

gradual

Adjective

Two of the people with MS, including Miller, have progressive MS, a form of the disease marked by gradual worsening of neurological function and disabilities over time.

— Kaitlin Sullivan, NBC news, 15 Mar. 2026
Both Krishnamoorthi and Kelly argue Stratton’s approach could harm small businesses and entry-level jobs and say a gradual increase to $17 an hour is more politically achievable.

— Rick Pearson, Chicago Tribune, 15 Mar. 2026