1.
step by step; one step at a time; gradually
Progressing slowly and steadily, making incremental progress. Used both for literal walking and figurative advancement toward a goal.
一歩ずつ前に進む。
To move forward one step at a time.
日本語が一歩ずつ上達している。
My Japanese is improving step by step.
焦らずに一歩ずつ目標に近づいていこう。
Let's get closer to our goal step by step without rushing.
Compound of 一歩 (one step) + ずつ (each/at a time). Used both literally for physical movement and figuratively for gradual progress toward a goal. Often appears in encouraging or motivational contexts.
COMMON PATTERNS:
- 一歩ずつ進む: to advance step by step
- 一歩ずつ成長する: to grow step by step
- 一歩ずつ近づく: to get closer step by step
SIMILAR EXPRESSIONS:
- 少しずつ: little by little (more general, not limited to steps)
- 着実に: steadily (emphasizes reliability rather than incremental motion)
- 徐々に: gradually (more formal, written register)