bit by bit

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "bit by bit" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe a process that is done slowly over time. For example, "We have been building the model house bit by bit, and it's almost finished!".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

It wasn't one $100,000 transfer, Fox said, "it was bit by bit by bit by bit".

Huffington Post

Bit by bit.

The New York Times

"Bit by bit," he replied.

The New York Times

But bit by bit, right?

The New Yorker

Bit by bit, bit by bit.

The New Yorker

I sawed it bit by bit.

The New York Times

Activism crept up, bit by bit.

The Guardian

Tossing out a little, bit by bit.

The New York Times

Bit by bit, he did.

The Guardian - Sport

It goes bit by bit.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

And, bit-by-bit, it is easing.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "bit by bit" to emphasize a gradual process, especially when patience is required or the changes are subtle.

Common error

While "bit by bit" is acceptable, overuse can make your writing sound repetitive. Vary your language by using alternatives like "gradually" or "step by step" for a more sophisticated tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "bit by bit" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying verbs or clauses to indicate the manner in which an action is performed. Ludwig AI confirms that it is a correct expression. It describes how something progresses or changes incrementally. Examples show it modifying verbs like 'grow', 'destroy', and 'change'.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Academia

14%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "bit by bit" is a common and grammatically sound adverbial phrase used to describe processes that occur incrementally. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's a correct and usable phrase in written English. It signifies gradual progress and is widely employed across various contexts, from news and media to academic writing. While versatile, writers should avoid overuse and consider synonyms like "gradually" or "little by little" to maintain a balanced tone. Ludwig examples underscore its prevalence in conveying the idea of slow but steady advancement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

little by little

Synonymous, but slightly more emphatic about the small increments.

a little at a time

Highlights the small quantity of progress made each time.

step by step

Focuses on the sequential nature of the progress.

slowly but surely

Emphasizes the certainty of progress despite the slowness.

gradually

Single word that emphasizes the slow and steady progression.

incrementally

Single word that stresses the increasing amounts.

inch by inch

Emphasizes very slow and small movements.

by degrees

Emphasizes the incremental changes over time.

piecemeal

Highlights the fragmented nature of the process.

in stages

Focuses on the process being divided into distinct phases.

FAQs

How can I use "bit by bit" in a sentence?

Use "bit by bit" to describe a process or change that happens gradually over time. For example, "We are improving our product "bit by bit" based on user feedback."

What are some alternatives to "bit by bit"?

You can use alternatives like "gradually", "little by little", or "step by step" depending on the specific context.

Is it redundant to say "bit by bit by bit"?

While repeating "bit by bit" can emphasize the slowness or incremental nature of something, it can also sound repetitive. Use it sparingly for effect, and consider alternatives if it feels awkward.

What's the difference between "bit by bit" and "all at once"?

"Bit by bit" describes a gradual process, while "all at once" describes something happening instantaneously or completely in a single action. They are antonyms indicating opposite approaches.