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

The duration in days of a particular shower is somewhat arbitrary, since the beginning and ending are gradual and indefinite.

— Joe Rao, Space.com, 18 July 2026
Curated by Our Editors There are more subtle effects as well—such as gradual changes in the shape of Earth’s orbit as a result of the gravitational effects of other planets—that make this calculation difficult.

— Phil Plait, Scientific American, 17 July 2026

Definition of gradual

Adjective

New this year will be an enormous 20-foot tipi, as well as a demonstration area revealing the process of erecting tipi’s step-by-step.

— Chadd Scott, Forbes.com, 17 July 2026
Content creator Alexa Santos, known on for her viral recipes as @alexawhatsfordinner, tried her hand at the frozen watermelon dessert, sharing a video of her step-by-step guide that has since amassed more than 32,000 likes.

— Kelly McCarthy, ABC News, 10 July 2026

Definition of step-by-step

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step-ups

stepwise

stereotype

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“Stepwise.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/stepwise. Accessed 25 Jul. 2026.

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Synonyms of stepwise

adjective

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