one strand at a time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "one strand at a time" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a process of working through something gradually or methodically, often in a context where complexity is involved. Example: "When tackling the intricate design, I decided to approach it one strand at a time to ensure each detail was perfect."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

Moreover, correction with SS ONs appears to occur one strand at a time suggesting that repair of the DNA substrate involves strand transfer.

DNA Repair

These nucleases do not form dimers and they cleave DNA only one strand at a time on the 3′ side of a mismatch (Oleykowski et al. 1998; Yang et al. 2000; Qiu et al. 2004; Yeung et al. 2005; Voskarides and Deltas 2009).

G3: Genes, Genomes, Genetics

The connecting threads of the relationships are built one strand at a time.

The New York Times

Finally he adds glassy eyes and hair -- human or equine -- one strand at a time.

The New York Times

Because resolvase is a type 1 topoisomerase, we infer that it makes the required duplex bDNA breaks of recombination one strand at a time.

Stanford University

One strand at a time, the first rays of the morning sun shine through just as, one by one, the city lights go out.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

So a typical page is segmented like the back of a scarab beetle, and the reader must choose to read either one narrative strand at a time or one page at a time and thus two or three strands simultaneously.

The New Yorker

I would say 'wigmaking' is the actual hand tying of wigs, which is what I do one single strand at a time, and building a foundation.

HuffPost

The Ag10c was respectively labeled with 2AP at three different positions, both in the substrate strand and in the enzyme strand, one at a time.

Biochimie

Instead, he needs to build his influence by creating a web of strong, interdependent relationships, based on credibility and trust, throughout his team and the entire organization one strand at a time.

Harvard Business Review

And once Pif1 has bound to the DNA, it works to 'reel in' the overhang or a single strand, one base at a time.

eLife

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "one strand at a time" to emphasize a deliberate and careful approach, especially when dealing with complex or intricate tasks. It suggests attention to detail and a focus on individual components.

Common error

Avoid using "one strand at a time" in situations where a simpler phrase like "step by step" would suffice. Overusing it can make your writing sound unnecessarily complex or pretentious.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "one strand at a time" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to describe how an action is performed. It indicates a method of proceeding deliberately and sequentially. Ludwig provides examples in both scientific and general contexts, highlighting its versatility.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Wiki

13%

Less common in

Academia

13%

Reference

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "one strand at a time" serves as an adverbial phrase, emphasizing a methodical, step-by-step approach. As Ludwig AI indicates, this expression is grammatically correct and commonly used across various fields, including science, news, and general writing. It’s particularly effective when illustrating complex tasks requiring careful attention to detail. While adaptable to various writing styles, it’s best to avoid overusing it in simpler contexts where alternatives like "step by step" or "gradually" might be more appropriate. The phrase frequency is "Common" based on the 15 examples found.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

step by step

Focuses on the sequential nature of the process, emphasizing incremental progress.

bit by bit

Underscores the smallness of each individual action.

little by little

Highlights the small increments of progress made over time.

one element at a time

Highlights the focus on individual components.

gradually

Emphasizes the slow and steady nature of the progression.

methodically

Focuses on the organized and systematic approach.

piece by piece

Highlights that the final result is achieved through joining individual elements.

incrementally

Stresses the increasing nature of the progression.

in stages

Emphasizes that the task is divided in steps.

by degrees

Emphasizes the slight and subtle changes occurring over time.

FAQs

How can I use "one strand at a time" in a sentence?

You can use "one strand at a time" to describe a methodical approach to a complex task. For example: "When tackling the intricate design, I decided to approach it one strand at a time to ensure each detail was perfect."

What does "one strand at a time" mean?

The phrase "one strand at a time" suggests handling a task or problem incrementally, with focused attention on each element or step individually.

What can I say instead of "one strand at a time"?

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

Is "one strand at a time" a common phrase?

Yes, "one strand at a time" is a common phrase, particularly when describing detailed processes in fields like science, crafting, or problem-solving.