adjectiveadverb

schrittweise

step by step

Wenn man eine Sache nicht sofort ganz macht, sondern nach und nach in kleinen Teilen erledigt.

Definition & meaning

The word "schrittweise" describes a process or action that occurs gradually, one step at a time. It indicates that something is not happening all at once but is instead divided into smaller, manageable stages or increments. In English, it is most commonly translated as "step-by-step," "gradually," or "bit by bit."

Grammar & Word origin

"schrittweise" is a compound word formed from two components:

  1. der Schritt: Meaning "the step."
  2. -weise: A common German suffix used to form adverbs or adjectives that describe the manner, way, or method in which something is performed.

Grammatically, "schrittweise" can function as both an adverb (describing how an action is performed) and an adjective (describing a noun). When used as an adjective before a noun, it follows standard German adjective declension rules.

Synonyms & antonyms

Synonyms:

  • allmählich: Meaning "gradual" or "little by little."
  • stufenweise: Meaning "in stages" or "phased," often used for technical or administrative processes.
  • sukzessive: A more formal term meaning "successive" or "consecutive."
  • nach und nach: A common adverbial phrase meaning "bit by bit."

Antonyms:

  • schlagartig: Meaning "abruptly" or "suddenly" (literally "like a blow").
  • plötzlich: Meaning "sudden."
  • auf einmal: Meaning "all at once" or "simultaneously."

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Examples

Wir lösen das Problem schrittweise.adverb

We're solving the problem step by step.

Schrittweise verbessert sich die Situation.adverb

Step by step, the situation is improving.

Die Anleitung erklärt den Prozess schrittweise.adverb

The instructions explain the process step by step.

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