step-by-step

adjective or adverb

: marked by successive degrees usually of limited extent : gradual

Examples of step-by-step in a Sentence

the incessant step-by-step advance of the enemy's troops could no longer be resisted
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
Grow your own sweet, juicy fruit by starting watermelon seeds indoors or out with this step-by-step guide. Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 13 May 2025 While generative AI can create new text and images in response to prompts or requests, more advanced multimodal gen-AI models feature advanced step-by-step reasoning and research capabilities. Jim Deloach, Forbes.com, 13 May 2025 The conclave, illustrated: The step-by-step process used to elect new pope to succeed Pope Francis How long will a conclave take? Phaedra Trethan, USA Today, 7 May 2025 The nonprofit’s website also provides step-by-step instructions on how to order flowers to be delivered to a specific grave. Blane Bachelor, Smithsonian Magazine, 5 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for step-by-step

Word History

First Known Use

1581, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of step-by-step was in 1581

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Step-by-step.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/step-by-step. Accessed 18 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

step-by-step

adjective
ˌstep-bī-ˈstep
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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