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.
Here are step-by-step instructions to safely clean mold out of your shower. Ashlyn Needham, Southern Living, 19 Apr. 2025 The Times even included a step-by-step guide about how to do the dance. Alice George, Smithsonian Magazine, 18 Apr. 2025 Keep reading for step-by-step instructions on how to buy Stagecoach. Lea Veloso, StyleCaster, 18 Apr. 2025 However, the subject came up as engines on the cars are capable of producing over 900 horsepower, but over the last decade, NASCAR has dropped the power output in a step-by-step manner. Josh Hammer, MSNBC Newsweek, 15 Apr. 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 23 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

step-by-step

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