step by step

step by step (not comparable)

1. From one stage to the next in sequence.

   Coordinate terms: in order, one step at a time, one by one, sequentially, serially; see also Thesaurus:sequentially

   She assembled the toy step by step, following the instructions carefully.

   We were shown the process step by step.

2. Gradually and steadily.

   Synonyms: bit by bit, little by little, one by one; see also Thesaurus:incrementally, Thesaurus:gradually

   Like many a successful YouTuber, she built up her following step by step, amassing subscribers as her video library grew.

   • 2024 January 10, Philip Haigh, “Four decades of Britain's railway evolution - step by step”, in RAIL, number 1000, page 65:

     Rail technology advanced step by step - albeit electrification was a good stride, rather than a short step.