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

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

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 step-by-step There are also mile-wide court dresses; a step-by-step look at the queen’s daily toilette, and a replica of the jewels from the Affair of the Diamond Necklace, which saw Marie Antoinette’s reputation damaged by false criminal accusations. Samantha Conti, Footwear News, 19 Sep. 2025 Use your headline banner to explain your coaching process step-by-step. Jodie Cook, Forbes.com, 18 Sep. 2025 Our step-by-step instructions will walk you through the entire process of boiling and baking to achieve the ideal fluffy-yet-chewy texture. Sarah Martens, Better Homes & Gardens, 11 Sep. 2025 Unlike programs that simply hand out answers, ETI builds step-by-step understanding. Sixteen Ramos, USA Today, 10 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for step-by-step
Recent Examples of Synonyms for step-by-step
gradual
Adjective
  • The 250-acre area is known for its gradual slopes and gentle tree skiing in a scenic bowl-like setting.
    Grace Bastidas, Parents, 29 Sep. 2025
  • Change in the industry can take many forms and is often gradual, but what matters most is honesty.
    Lauren Parker, Sourcing Journal, 29 Sep. 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Step-by-step.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/step-by-step. Accessed 2 Oct. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!