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.
The 7 Best Potting Soils Steps for Repotting a Peace Lily Follow this step-by-step guide to repot your peace lily. Leanne Potts, Better Homes & Gardens, 23 Jan. 2025 Provide a step-by-step guide for setting up the account, selecting low-cost index funds and automating contributions. Tor Constantino, Mba, Forbes, 22 Jan. 2025 Apple's support article has step-by-step instructions on how to do this. Brenda Stolyar, WIRED, 21 Jan. 2025 Below, three celebrity makeup artists share a step-by-step guide to luminizing makeup for women over 50, from primer to makeup, eyebrow shaping, and the final spritz of setting mist. Jenny Berg, Vogue, 21 Jan. 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

Dictionary Entries Near step-by-step

Cite this Entry

“Step-by-step.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/step-by-step. Accessed 30 Jan. 2025.

Kids Definition

step-by-step

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