STEPWISE Synonyms: 21 Similar and Opposite Words

stepwise

adjective

Definition of stepwise

as in gradual

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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 stepwise Their population has risen from 76 to 108, while the Central chimps’ population has seen a stepwise decline. — Evan Bush, NBC news, 9 Apr. 2026 Something else Krasley observed was that the factories didn’t embark on one gigantic, expensive retrofit, but rather took a stepwise approach to accumulating cooling improvements that was easier on their bottom lines. — Jasmin Malik Chua, Sourcing Journal, 26 Mar. 2026 Certain fungi use enzymes to break down complex organic matter through stepwise reactions. — Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 23 Feb. 2026 This stepwise approach will give you a reliable, privacy-compliant framework for budget allocation that evolves as your business and the market do. — Bernard May, Forbes.com, 18 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for stepwise

Recent Examples of Synonyms for stepwise

Adjective

This is a gradual loss of muscle mass that actually begins around age 30.

— Sarah Klein, Washington Post, 5 Sep. 2026
On the ground, the front lines have remained largely static, with Russia making only gradual gains in its attempt to take the whole of Ukraine's Donbas region.

— Miles J. Herszenhorn, USA Today, 5 Sep. 2026

Definition of gradual

Adjective

It's now bought back a cumulative $60 billion worth of its own shares, said Robin Washington, Salesforce's chief operating and financial officer.

— Jordan Novet, CNBC, 16 Sep. 2026
Not one person, not one thing, but cycles of cumulative, relational and shared actions that are equal parts remarkable and common.

— Supriya Lopez Pillai, Forbes.com, 15 Sep. 2026

Definition of cumulative

Browse Nearby Words

step-ups

stepwise

stereotype

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“Stepwise.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/stepwise. Accessed 19 Sep. 2026.

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Synonyms of stepwise

adjective

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