schrittweise

Schrittweise is a German term that functions as both an adverb and an adjective, meaning in a gradual or step-by-step manner. It is derived from Schritt, meaning step, and the suffix -weise, which forms expressions of manner. In English, the closest equivalent is “step by step” or “gradual.”

In practice, schrittweise describes processes or actions that unfold through successive small steps rather than all at once. It is widely used in technical, administrative, and everyday contexts. Examples include a schrittweise Einführung (gradual introduction), eine schrittweise Erhöhung (incremental increase), or eine schrittweise Annäherung (gradual rapprochement). As a verb modifier, it appears in phrases such as schrittweise vorgehen or Schritt für Schritt vorgehen, both conveying gradual progress.

Schrittweise is often paired with nouns that denote procedures, reforms, or changes, and can appear in various collocations: schrittweise Umsetzung, schrittweise Anpassung, schrittweises Vorgehen, or simply used adverbially with verbs. It contrasts with terms like allmählich (slowly/gradually) and stufenweise (in stages), though all convey controlled progression. The expression is common in journalism, policy discussions, project planning, and educational contexts, where precise, gradual change is emphasized.