in little steps

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in little steps" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a gradual approach to achieving a goal or making progress. Example: "To improve your skills, it's best to learn in little steps rather than trying to master everything at once."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

Cooperation came in little steps, one of them the city's construction of Firemen's Hall, used for two fire companies and as the volunteers' headquarters.

The New York Times

I'm seriously considering our relationship, and the only way I have to do this is to look at it in little steps".

The New York Times - Style

Sitting on her heels, she runs in little steps, and her knees bob in a rhythm so perfect it's comical, one instance among many of how her amazing strength enables lightness and delicacy.

The New York Times - Arts

Or to put it another way, it should be no surprise that the era of record low interest rates is coming to an end but when the rates do rise it will be in little steps.

The Guardian - Business

Why do i have to move it around in little steps?

TechCrunch

As with most big challenges, the answer is more likely to be found in little steps and little changes, rather than grand strategies and grand ideas.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

He danced in tiny little steps, as though losing and regaining his balance, his arms loose at his sides, fingers snapping.

The New Yorker

Help him out a little, in small steps and be prepared to remind him for a while until he can get it sorted by himself.

WikiHow

The key is in appreciating the little steps we take along the way, so the very act of reaching for the outcome becomes less overwhelming and more fulfilling.

HuffPost

Progression is key; we cannot dream to live in a future society that lives in cohesion without taking little steps to mend the environment we live in.

Huffington Post

But in "Every Little Step" there are more stories in a longer time frame, not to mention musical numbers.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in little steps" when you want to emphasize a gradual and manageable approach to achieving a larger goal. It conveys a sense of patience and persistence.

Common error

While useful, avoid using "in little steps" excessively. Over-reliance can make your writing sound repetitive. Vary your language by using synonyms like "gradually" or "incrementally" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in little steps" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to describe the manner in which an action is performed. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Wiki

35%

Science

15%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in little steps" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a gradual approach to achieving a goal. As Ludwig AI indicates, it functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to emphasize a manageable and patient process. While versatile, it's important to use it judiciously, considering synonyms like "gradually" or "incrementally" to avoid repetition. The phrase is most frequently found in news and media, wikis and science, showing its broad applicability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

step by step

This phrase suggests a structured and methodical approach.

one step at a time

Highlights the sequential nature of progress, focusing on individual steps.

bit by bit

This alternative highlights a step-by-step approach.

incrementally

This alternative emphasizes the gradual nature of the progress.

gradually

This focuses on the slow and steady nature of the advancement.

in increments

Emphasizes small, measurable advancements.

in stages

This implies progress is made through defined phases.

in a series of small actions

More explicit in describing the composition of the progress as several actions.

by degrees

Implies a slow and almost imperceptible progression.

piecemeal

This alternative suggests progress made through individual pieces or actions.

FAQs

What does "in little steps" mean?

The phrase "in little steps" means to proceed gradually or incrementally towards a goal, making small advancements over time. It emphasizes a slow and steady approach.

How can I use "in little steps" in a sentence?

You can use "in little steps" to describe any process that requires a gradual approach. For example: "Learning a new language is best done in little steps, focusing on vocabulary and grammar individually."

What can I say instead of "in little steps"?

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

Is it better to proceed quickly or "in little steps"?

The best approach depends on the situation. "In little steps" is ideal for complex tasks or when building a solid foundation is crucial. However, for simpler tasks, a faster approach might be more efficient.