1.
step by step; one step at a time; gradually
Moving forward or making progress gradually, taking one step at a time.
一歩一歩進む。
I advance step by step.
日本語を一歩一歩勉強している。
I'm studying Japanese one step at a time.
一歩一歩着実に目標に近づいている。
I'm steadily getting closer to my goal, step by step.
一歩一歩 emphasizes deliberate, steady progress — taking things one step at a time without rushing. It carries a positive, encouraging tone.
WORD FORMATION:
Reduplication of 一歩 (one step). This X+X pattern emphasizes repetition and steadiness.
COMMON PATTERNS:
- 一歩一歩進む: to advance step by step
- 一歩一歩着実に: steadily, step by step
- 一歩一歩成長する: to grow step by step
SIMILAR EXPRESSIONS:
- 少しずつ: little by little (more neutral, less deliberate)
- 徐々に: gradually (more formal, emphasizes slow change)
- 着実に: steadily (emphasizes reliability)
- 一歩ずつ: one step at a time (similar meaning, slightly less literary)