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:
- der Schritt: Meaning "the step."
- -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:
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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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