by inches

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The phrase "by inches" is an adverbial expression used in English to describe something that happens or changes by a very small amount or distance. It means that the movement or change is not large, but rather gradual and small.

Simple Explanation:

• Meaning: "By inches" means a little bit at a time. It is often used to talk about moving something slowly or changing something in tiny steps.

Usage Instructions:

• Use "by inches" when you want to describe a movement or change that is very small or gradual.
• It is often used in situations where precision or carefulness is needed.

Example:

• Basic Example: "The car moved forward by inches, trying to fit into the small parking space."
• Contextual Example: "She was nervous and stepped closer to the edge of the cliff by inches."

Advanced Usage:

In advanced contexts, "by inches" can also refer to progress in situations such as negotiations, learning, or achieving goals that require patience. For example: - "The team succeeded by inches, making progress with each meeting."

Word Variants:

• There aren't direct variants of "by inches," but you can use related phrases like "inch by inch" to emphasize slow progress.
• Inch by inch: This phrase means to do something very slowly or gradually, similar to "by inches."

Different Meanings:

• While "by inches" primarily refers to physical movement or small changes, it can also metaphorically describe emotional or situational changes that happen slowly.

Synonyms:

• Gradually
• Slowly
• Little by little
• Step by step

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• "Inch forward": This phrasal verb means to move slowly or with caution.
• "Take it step by step": Similar to "by inches," this phrase means to approach a task or situation gradually.

Conclusion:

"By inches" is a useful phrase to express small movements or changes in various contexts.

Academic

Adverb

1. by a short distance
   • they moved it by inches

Synonyms

• little by little
• by small degrees