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 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 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 See All Example Sentences for stepwise

Recent Examples of Synonyms for stepwise

Adjective

Instead of doubling down on a flawed system, policymakers can make gradual changes by introducing new tax categories in the existing framework and imposing taxes that correspond to the alcoholic content of that category.

— Adam Hoffer, Chicago Tribune, 5 July 2026
And since then, improvements have been gradual rather than revolutionary.

— Chris Evans, Forbes.com, 5 July 2026

Definition of gradual

Adjective

Nvidia's Connect Two Sparks playbook shows the step-by-step for getting two GB10 systems to talk.

— Charles Jefferies, PC Magazine, 30 June 2026
For more step-by-step help, check out our guides on how to free up iPhone storage, how to clean up your phone and how to transfer photos from your phone to a hard drive.

— Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 27 June 2026

Definition of step-by-step

Adjective

The median cumulative earnings for UC graduates over a 20-year period amounts to more than $2 million, data from 2024 shows.

— Tarini Mehta, Sacbee.com, 2 July 2026
Keeping headphone volume below 60 percent of maximum, taking listening breaks and wearing ear protection at concerts or loud job sites all reduce cumulative damage over time.

— Allison Palmer, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 1 July 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 Jul. 2026.

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Synonyms of stepwise

adjective

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