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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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 step-by-step Follow this step-by-step method to keep your smoker free from greasy buildup that can cause a potential fire hazard, affect the taste of your food, and attract unwanted pests. —

Maria Sabella, The Spruce, 4 June 2026 Autonomy in such contexts allows AI to operate continuously and execute complex protocols without step-by-step human control or real-time adjustments during the process. —

Mohammad Hosseini, Chicago Tribune, 4 June 2026 Below, check out the differences between the VPNs, along with step-by-step instructions on how to use them to watch Love Island UK in the US. —

Jason Pham, StyleCaster, 1 June 2026 Yolo County has a step-by-step explainer on its website of how vote-by-mail ballots are counted. —

Don Sweeney, Sacbee.com, 1 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for step-by-step

Recent Examples of Synonyms for step-by-step

gradual

Adjective

Extensive design iterations, airworthiness certification, and manufacturing validation requirements make the path to mass production longer and more complex, resulting in a gradual ramp-up in deliveries.

— Bojan Stojkovski, Interesting Engineering, 7 June 2026
All spring long, Venus and Jupiter have been playing a gradual version of celestial chicken, driving toward each other.

— Mike Lynch, Twin Cities, 7 June 2026