Translation guide
The English phrase 'little by little' describes a gradual process or change happening in small increments over time. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through various adverbs, idiomatic phrases, and grammatical patterns, each with subtle differences in nuance and usage.
Expressing that something happens slowly, step by step, or in small amounts over time.
The most common and versatile way to say 'little by little'. It can be used for both physical and abstract gradual changes.
日本語が少しずつ上手になっています。
My Japanese is improving little by little.
少しずつお金を貯めています。
I'm saving money little by little.
A slightly more formal adverb meaning 'gradually' or 'steadily'. Often used in written language or formal speech.
景気は徐々に回復している。
The economy is recovering little by little.
Means 'gradually' and is very common in spoken Japanese. It implies a natural, often expected progression.
だんだん暖かくなってきた。
It's getting warmer little by little.
A phrase meaning 'little by little, but...' used to emphasize that progress is slow but steady. Often followed by a positive outcome.
少しずつだが、確実に前進している。
Little by little, but we are definitely making progress.
Describing the physical division or consumption of something in small portions.
Also used for physical quantities, meaning 'in small amounts' or 'bit by bit'.
この薬は少しずつ飲んでください。
Please take this medicine little by little.
Means 'dividing into small portions'. Used when physically separating something into smaller parts.
大袋のスナックを小分けにして食べる。
I eat the large bag of snacks by dividing it into small portions.
Emphasizing a methodical, incremental approach to a task or learning.
Literally 'one step at a time'. Used for progress in learning, projects, or life.
一歩ずつ前に進もう。
Let's move forward little by little.
Means 'in stages' or 'stepwise'. Often used in technical or business contexts.
システムを段階的に導入する。
We will introduce the system little by little, in stages.
少しずつ emphasizes small increments and is neutral in formality. だんだん implies a natural, observable change and is more conversational. 徐々に is formal and often used in writing or news reports. All three can often be translated as 'little by little' or 'gradually'.
少しずつ慣れてきた。
I'm getting used to it little by little.
だんだん慣れてきた。
I'm gradually getting used to it.
徐々に慣れてきた。
I'm steadily getting used to it.
Do not translate 'little by little' word-for-word as 小さいで小さい or similar. It is not natural Japanese. Use the adverbs and phrases listed above.
Do not translate 'little by little' word-for-word as 小さいで小さい or similar. It is not natural Japanese. Use the adverbs and phrases listed above.