in stages

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in stages" is both correct and commonly used in written English.
It is often used to refer to a process that is taking place in multiple steps, or that is occurring gradually over time. For example, you could say "The government is introducing a new policy, rolling it out in stages."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Things come in stages.

The New Yorker

It happens in stages.

The New Yorker

It comes in stages.

The New York Times

"Nice taking it in stages.

The New York Times

We're doing it in stages".

The New Yorker

Many are returning in stages.

The New York Times

This evolved in stages.

The New York Times

They left in stages.

The New York Times

She swallows in stages.

The New York Times

Fund in stages.

Harvard Business Review

Negotiate in stages.

Harvard University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in stages" to clearly communicate that a process will occur in a series of steps, allowing for better planning and management. For example, "The project will be implemented in stages to minimize disruption."

Common error

Avoid using "in stages" without providing specific details about the actual stages involved. Vague statements like, "We'll complete the project in stages", lack actionable information. Clarify each stage's objectives and timelines.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in stages" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to describe how an action is performed. As demonstrated by Ludwig, it indicates that something is done through a series of steps or phases.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

22%

Wiki

18%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

7%

Academia

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in stages" is a versatile adverbial phrase used to describe processes that occur in a series of steps or phases. According to Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and widely used across various contexts, from news and media to scientific and informal communications. When writing, it's important to define the specific stages when using this phrase to ensure clarity. Alternatives such as "gradually", "step by step", and "in phases" can be used depending on the desired nuance. Remember, the most frequent authoritative sources that leverage the phrase are The New York Times, The New Yorker, Harvard Business Review, The Guardian, and Forbes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in phases

Synonymous; emphasizes distinct periods within a larger process.

in a series of steps

Highlights the planned sequence of actions that make up a process.

step by step

Emphasizes a sequential progression, focusing on individual steps rather than broader phases.

gradually

Highlights the slow and continuous nature of the process, lacking the distinct steps implied by "in stages".

one step at a time

Focuses on handling a process with individual actions, avoiding the overwhelming nature of big tasks.

progressively

Focuses on continuous advancement, rather than distinct steps.

incrementally

Emphasizes small, regular increases or advancements.

in increments

Focuses on the division of a process into small, measurable portions.

by degrees

Highlights the subtle and subtle nature of changes over time.

piecemeal

Highlights the fragmentary or gradual accumulation of something.

FAQs

How can I use "in stages" in a sentence?

Use "in stages" to describe a process that occurs in multiple steps. For example, "The company is releasing the new software "in stages" to ensure a smooth transition".

What are some alternatives to "in stages"?

Alternatives include "gradually", "step by step", or "in phases", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "complete the project in stages" or "complete the project gradually"?

Both are correct, but "in stages" implies distinct, planned steps, while "gradually" suggests a slower, more continuous process.

What does it mean when something is done "in stages"?

It means the task is broken down into smaller, manageable steps or "in phases", often with specific goals or milestones for each phase.