Translation guide
How to express doing something in a gradual, sequential manner in Japanese.
Expressing that an action or process is carried out in a step-by-step, gradual, or sequential manner.
Literally 'one step one step', this is a very common and natural way to say 'step by step' in Japanese. It emphasizes steady progress.
Referring to a set of instructions or a guide that is presented in a step-by-step format.
Both mean 'step by step' or 'gradually', but 一歩一歩 emphasizes a metaphorical 'step' forward, often used for progress in life or goals. 少しずつ is more general and can be used for any gradual change, like getting used to something or learning bit by bit.
一歩一歩夢に近づく。
Getting closer to my dream step by step.
少しずつ暖かくなってきた。
It's getting warmer little by little.
The literal translation 'ステップ・バイ・ステップ' is understood but often sounds like a loanword. For natural Japanese, use 一歩一歩 or 少しずつ for actions, and 手順を追った for instructions.
一歩一歩前に進もう。
Let's move forward step by step.
彼は一歩一歩目標に近づいている。
He is getting closer to his goal step by step.
Means 'little by little' or 'gradually'. Very common and natural for describing gradual progress or change.
少しずつ慣れていきます。
I'll get used to it step by step.
日本語を少しずつ勉強しています。
I'm studying Japanese step by step.
Means 'in stages' or 'stepwise'. More formal and often used in business or technical contexts.
プロジェクトを段階的に進めます。
We will proceed with the project step by step.
Means 'in order' or 'following the sequence'. Used when explaining or doing things in a logical order.
順を追って説明します。
I'll explain it step by step.
Means 'steadily' or 'surely'. Emphasizes reliable, step-by-step progress without rushing.
着実に成果を上げている。
We are achieving results step by step.
We have prepared a step-by-step guide.
Direct loanword from English. Commonly used in technical or casual contexts, especially for tutorials.
ステップバイステップのチュートリアル
step-by-step tutorial