but incrementally

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "but incrementally" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is happening gradually or in small steps rather than all at once. Example: "The project will be implemented but incrementally to ensure that we can manage any issues that arise."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

Not wholesale, to be sure, but incrementally.

The New York Times - Sports

But, incrementally, Travia case by Travia case, chemical by experiment by experiment, a partnership formed.

The Guardian

Spain has pledged to raise its retirement age to 67 from 65, but incrementally over the next 20 years.

The New York Times

This often translates into shifting people from substandard but incrementally developing environments into apartment blocks that cut them off from their social networks and livelihoods.

The New York Times

Davis's sensitive reading of "Swann's Way" is the first volume of a new seven-part translation (published simultaneously in Britain but incrementally in America because of copyright law).

The New York Times

A more typical play for drug companies — the Humira play — is to start at a high price and keep raising it ever higher, but incrementally.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

The new Stratus is surely better than the previous one, but only incrementally.

The New York Times

This paint covered the permanent ink more easily than the other paints did, but only incrementally.

The New York Times

Two-stage-cooling configuration further improves the efficiency but only incrementally.

Computer Aided Chemical Engineering

As new money fled the stock market and poured into the firm, Schwarzman's management style evolved, but only incrementally.

The New Yorker

It's probably not wise to read too much into that, but perhaps, incrementally, a space is being created for real European TV drama.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "but incrementally" to emphasize that a change or process is unfolding gradually, rather than suddenly or completely. This can be particularly useful when describing complex implementations or shifts in strategy.

Common error

Avoid using "but incrementally" when you mean to convey that something is unimportant or negligible. "Incrementally" refers to a gradual process, not a lack of impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but incrementally" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate the manner in which an action is performed or a change occurs. As noted by Ludwig AI, the phrase is considered grammatically correct. It describes a gradual process characterized by small steps.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Science

26%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "but incrementally" is a grammatically sound adverbial phrase used to describe a gradual change or progression. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in various contexts. While it appears most frequently in news and media and scientific writing, it maintains a neutral register suitable for diverse audiences. When using this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects the intention of gradual, step-by-step change, distinguishing it from insignificance or sudden transformation. By understanding its proper context and alternatives, you can enhance the clarity and precision of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

but gradually

Emphasizes the slowness and evenness of the change.

but steadily

Highlights the consistent and reliable nature of the progression.

but progressively

Focuses on the forward movement and improvement over time.

but by degrees

Suggests a measured and controlled advancement.

but in stages

Indicates a series of defined steps in the process.

but in small increments

Stresses the tiny size of each individual change.

but little by little

Conveys a sense of patience and persistence in achieving the result.

but step by step

Highlights the sequential nature of the advancement.

but piecemeal

Emphasizes that the change is done in separate parts over a period of time.

but bit by bit

Similar to "little by little", reinforcing the gradual nature.

FAQs

What does "but incrementally" mean?

The phrase "but incrementally" means something is changing or progressing gradually, in small steps. It emphasizes a slow, steady development rather than a sudden or complete transformation.

How can I use "but incrementally" in a sentence?

You can use "but incrementally" to show that a process or change is happening gradually. For example: "The company is adopting new policies, "but incrementally", to minimize disruption."

What are some alternatives to "but incrementally"?

Some alternatives to "but incrementally" include "but gradually", "but steadily", or "but progressively". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "incrementally" or "gradually"?

Both "incrementally" and "gradually" describe a slow process, but "incrementally" suggests smaller steps and a more measured pace. Use "incrementally" when you want to emphasize the small, individual changes.