Definition

Adverb: Gradually, slowly, or in very small increments; progressing little by little.

Usage

This adverb describes a process of change or movement that happens very slowly and in tiny, often almost imperceptible, steps. It emphasizes the slowness and incremental nature of an action.

Examples

• The water level in the reservoir was rising by small degrees over the rainy season.
• Her health improved by small degrees after starting the new treatment.
• We are making progress on the project, but only by small degrees.

Advanced Usage

• "By small degrees" is often used to describe processes that are too slow to notice in the moment but become significant over time, such as erosion, learning, or cultural change.
• It can imply patience, persistence, or a lack of dramatic, sudden change.

Variants and Related Words

• By degrees: A more common variant with the same meaning.
  • His attitude changed by degrees.
• Little by little: A common synonym phrase.
• Gradually: A direct synonym.
• Incrementally: A more formal synonym, often used in technical or business contexts.

Synonyms

Gradually, slowly, little by little, bit by bit, step by step, piecemeal, incrementally, progressively.

Antonyms

Suddenly, abruptly, all at once, quickly, rapidly.

Related Idioms and Phrases

• By inches: Very similar in meaning, emphasizing tiny units of measurement.
  • The army advanced by inches through the difficult terrain.
• Drop by drop: Specifically for liquids, but used metaphorically for slow accumulation.
  • Knowledge is acquired drop by drop.

Adverb

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