STEPWISE Synonyms: 21 Similar and Opposite Words

stepwise

adjective

Definition of stepwise

as in gradual

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Example Sentences

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.

Recent Examples of stepwise Their population has risen from 76 to 108, while the Central chimps’ population has seen a stepwise decline. — Evan Bush, NBC news, 9 Apr. 2026 Something else Krasley observed was that the factories didn’t embark on one gigantic, expensive retrofit, but rather took a stepwise approach to accumulating cooling improvements that was easier on their bottom lines. — Jasmin Malik Chua, Sourcing Journal, 26 Mar. 2026 Certain fungi use enzymes to break down complex organic matter through stepwise reactions. — Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 23 Feb. 2026 This stepwise approach will give you a reliable, privacy-compliant framework for budget allocation that evolves as your business and the market do. — Bernard May, Forbes.com, 18 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for stepwise

Recent Examples of Synonyms for stepwise

Adjective

The Executive Risk Of Inevitability Aging, slower recovery, shifting hormone levels, and the gradual loss of muscle and bone density will naturally happen by default unless an intervention takes place.

— Julian Hayes II, Forbes.com, 31 July 2026
The officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to brief the media, said this would be a gradual process linked to an Israeli withdrawal.

— Samy Magdy, Los Angeles Times, 31 July 2026

Definition of gradual

Adjective

The American Red Cross offers an online Cat and Dog First Aid course with step-by-step demonstrations, photos, and videos covering choking, CPR, and other emergencies.

— Cathy M. Rosenthal, Chicago Tribune, 1 Aug. 2026
The course is built to walk parents step-by-step through mastering budget-busting expenses like diapers, wipes, formula, and groceries while building a supportive community of like-minded moms.

— Lauren Brown West-Rosenthal, Parents, 31 July 2026

Definition of step-by-step

Adjective

These cumulative burdens are often concentrated in communities that have experienced long-term disinvestment, including limited infrastructure spending, fewer business loans and lower property investment, often rooted in practices such as redlining.

— Mahbubur Meenar, The Conversation, 5 Aug. 2026
The cumulative impression of Alice that the book leaves is of someone moving serenely through life, meeting fond blessings and awful curses both with the same calm equanimity.

— Ian Penman, Harpers Magazine, 4 Aug. 2026

Definition of cumulative

Browse Nearby Words

step-ups

stepwise

stereotype

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“Stepwise.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/stepwise. Accessed 7 Aug. 2026.

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Synonyms of stepwise

adjective

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